education to be a writer

How to Become a Writer

Sean Glatch  |  July 1, 2024  |  12 Comments

So you’re wondering how to become a writer. The short answer is: anyone who writes is a writer. However, becoming a writer who’s serious about their professional career requires lots of work, and if you’re wondering how to become a professional writer, you’re here to start your journey towards a productive and successful literary career.

How do you become a writer? You don’t need a degree to be a writer, nor do you need to be a certain age. Becoming a writer simply requires an admiration for—and a longing to create with—language. So, don’t worry about becoming a writer later in life or lacking a formal education. (That’s what Writers.com is here for!)

No one can teach you how to admire the written word, but the instructors at Writers.com are experts at turning longing into language. That’s why this article covers everything you need on how to become a writer. From the personal to the professional, let’s dive into everything writers need to build a successful literary career.

How to Become a Writer: Contents

How to Become a Writer: Anyone Can Become One

It’s never too late to become a writer, how to become a writer: where to begin your writing journey, how to become a professional writer: what “professional” means, how to become a writer: resources for becoming a professional writer, how to become a writer: developing a writing habit.

Even today, there’s a persistent myth that writers are elite, born-with-it Ivory Tower folks who possess some ineffable gift of the Muses. Yes, some great writers were born with greatness (and plenty were born with wealth and privilege), but anyone who calls themselves a writer does so because they labor with the written word.

Becoming a writer simply requires an ardent exploration of language.

In others words, you don’t need an MFA from the University of Iowa to call yourself a writer. Becoming a writer simply requires an ardent exploration of language. If we had to boil a writer down to three requirements, it wouldn’t involve age or degree. The 4 traits for becoming a writer are:

• Passion for the written word,
• Desire to expand the boundaries and possibilities of language,
• Persistence and patience, bordering on stubbornness, and
• Willingness to grow and learn continuously.

Many writers who have these traits stop themselves from writing, maybe because they’re wondering how to become a writer without a degree, or simply because they don’t believe in themselves without the privilege and connections writers seem to have. Now, writers certainly benefit from a university education or a family legacy in literature, but countless writers have acquired respect and success without a degree or name recognition.

Ernest Hemingway never went to college, but he still won a Pulitzer and Nobel Prize; neither did Maya Angelou attend university, yet she’s celebrated as the “black woman’s poet laureate” and later accepted a professorship with Wake Forest University. Degrees are just paper; it’s words that matter.

Degrees are just paper; it’s words that matter.

Becoming a writer has no age restriction; the act of writing is rated G for the General Public, and those aforementioned traits are found in writers from ages 2 to 99+.

Many writers discover their writing talents in their later years. Why, exactly? Neurology reveals there are two types of intelligence : fluid intelligence and crystallized intelligence. “Fluid” refers to creative and adaptive thinking, including activities like writing and problem solving. “Crystallized” refers to the solidified body of knowledge people draw from—all the words, definitions, and experiences that build a foundation for the world.

Generally, younger adults have more fluid intelligence, whereas life experience builds one’s crystallized intelligence over time. The two intelligences tend to converge in a person’s 40s, since this is an age where the faculties for fluid intelligence haven’t declined, and crystallized intelligence abounds. Not-so-coincidentally, many writers see their careers flourish in their 40s and 50s!

Many celebrated writers didn’t put pen to paper until middle age or later.

In fact, many celebrated writers didn’t put pen to paper until middle age or later. Laura Ingalls Wilder didn’t start writing until her 40s, and her Little House series didn’t start printing until she was 65. Likewise, Most of Wallace Stevens’ work was published after he turned 50; despite being a poet, he worked at an insurance company, and most of his coworkers were shocked when he won a Pulitzer at 75. Nobody knew that he wrote!

Finally, many university students return for a writing degree after establishing a career elsewhere. BFA and MFA programs around the world educate students in their 30s and beyond; in 2017, the average age of a low-residency MFA student in the U.S. was 35.4, according to LitHub and AWP .

Whether you’re 19 or 90, you’re never too old to write. The best time to write is yesterday; the second-best time is today.

Rather than an If-Then structure, the writing profession follows a Became-Because structure.

How do you become a writer? Where do you begin? The writing profession is unlike most professions, which follow an If-Then structure. If you get a bachelor’s degree, Then you can work as a nurse, computer scientist, or accountant; If you join a worker’s guild or apprenticeship program, Then you can find work in a number of trade jobs.

The writing profession follows a Became-Because structure. Zora Neale Hurston became a writer because she obtained degrees from Howard University and Barnard College, encouraging her to dissect the African American experience through a literary and anthropological lens.

Conversely, Haruki Murakami became a writer because of a baseball game .

The qualifications for becoming a writer are unique to the individual, and every writer is formed by personal interests and experiences. As a result, no one can tell you where to begin your writing journey; however, if you’re wondering how to become a writer, you’ve already started your journey by thinking about it.

If you’re wondering how to become a writer, you’ve already started your journey by thinking about it.

One distinction to help you think about your writing journey is the difference between amateur and professional writers. If you’re not sure what you want to become, start with the following question: what does “professional” mean?

There are, generally, two classes of writers: amateurs and professionals. Before describing the professional writer, let’s be clear: “amateur” is not derogatory, and professional writers are not “better” than amateurs. Amateur comes from the Latin amator , “lover.” An amateur writer loves the written word just as much, sometimes even more, than the professional; amateurs simply have less pressure, deadlines, and financial dependence on writing. It’s a pastime, not a career.

If you want writing to be a significant portion of your income, then you aspire to being a professional writer.

If you want writing to be a significant portion of your income, then you aspire to being a professional writer. Professional writers have to approach their writing as a business, building a literary audience and keeping a regular writing schedule. Professional writers need to understand the ins and outs of the publishing industry—which they often learn through obtaining a university degree—and it also helps to have formal training in the publishing world and experience operating literary magazines.

How do you start to work toward becoming a professional writer? Below are resources to get you started.

At some point, the professional writer needs to know the ins and outs of writing as a business. This list covers the essentials of how to become a professional writer.

How to make money as a writer

• Explore freelance writing opportunities (updated weekdays at F.W.G.)
• 6 writers explain how they make money (NY Mag)
• Self-publishing versus traditional publishing (Self-Publishing School)
• Writing to market (Funds For Writers)

Taxes as a self-employed creative

• Taxes on freelance writing and royalties (TurboTax)
• Tax tips and unique situations (The Balance Careers)

Resources on publishing

• Poetry journals
• Fiction journals
• Creative nonfiction journals
• How to get published in a literary journal (Reader’s Digest)
• Book: What Editors Do by Peter Ginna ($25 at UChicago Press)

Becoming a writer online

• Basic guide to each social media platform (Kindlepreneur)
• Building an author’s website (The Write Practice)
• Free website template for authors (Copyfolio)
• Running a mailing list (Your Writer Platform)

Things to know before taking writing classes

• Poetry courses
• Fiction courses
• Creative nonfiction courses
• Why take a writing course?

Additional resources for learning how to become a writer

• Setting SMART goals
• Reading like a writer
• The golden rule: show, don’t tell
• Overcoming writer’s block
• Becoming a poet
• 8 tips on learning how to write
• Best online creative writing classes
• Creative writing programs (answering the question: should you get an MFA?)

How do professional writers spend their workdays? Perhaps the trickiest part about becoming a writer is establishing a writing habit. For example, Haruki Murakami runs a 10K every morning to support his writing, and Charles Dickens wrote (and slept) facing north to improve his creativity.

Perhaps the trickiest part about becoming a writer is establishing a writing habit.

What works for one person rarely works for another, so experiment with writing habits—and when you find one that works, stick with it.

Generally, you can parse the writing business into 3 separate components:

• The writing life—putting pen to paper at regular intervals.
• Scheduled time for “the business of writing”—literary submissions, applying for grants, etc.
• An active media/marketing presence—blogging, tweeting, emailing, etc.

You’ll want to schedule time for each of these elements in your daily writing habit. Of course, this is easier said than done. Budding writers often overestimate their ability to work: they think they can spend 3 hours writing, 2 hours replying to emails, and 2 hours submitting work to journals. Then they spend the afternoon watching reruns of BBC quiz shows. (Yes! I did do this recently.)

That’s why forging a consistent writing habit is essential—for amateur writers as well as professionals. Writing at the same place at the same time encourages your brain to write every day. And, if you can’t keep yourself focused on writing, try experimenting with different writing rituals. If a 10K helps Murakami write, something equally unique could help you, too.

How to Become a Writer: Take Your Next Step with Writers.com!

The classes we’ve curated in our upcoming schedule will take your writing life to the next level. Whether learning a new writing style or mastering the business of writing, becoming a writer feels a whole lot simpler with Writers.com.

Sean Glatch

12 comments.

Brilliant review Misty

I hope, I can be a better writer with your support.

Yeah. Same thing as with all other fields. Practice, practice, and once again, practice! It’s like a sport, you should always find new ways to practice.

This really helped me out. Thank you so much!

I’m 14 and i hope to become a writer someday. Thank you so much for the info.

Thank you for the information About to start my writing journey and thus really helped.

I’m a senior that would like to turn my love of writing into a profession. The information you have presented here has inspired me to continue moving towards that goal.

I live in a rural area of Uganda with very little education but always aspired to write a book on families. I am much encouraged. started it but got stuck ..

I love writing and thank you for information you have given meand am obliged to say thank.

i am very eager to become a writer be that script know how or fiction. i am a sponge for knowledge so i learn as i work. i treat everyday as a school day. i want to learn every single part of the writing career-be that if the editor drinks tea or coffee and how they like there papers folded. i soak information as i do a task. i love to build the bullet points for a story because everything needs a beginning. if you are baking a cake the eggs and flour are needed before you think about putting anything in the oven. to prepare a cake you need a tray to put it in-before you build a story you need a starting and then ingredients to put in along the way. i really love to build a story from different snippets of things. i have a thirst for many different aspects of life having spent a majority of time in hospitals and then being taken advantage of my my family because of my brain injury. so i know more than most in a lot of different subjects and matters in life, i have lost more than most in life but i am here telling my version of it to the big bright world. 0874762400 is my contact number

Discovering the path to becoming a writer is both exhilarating and daunting. It requires a blend of passion, persistence, and honing one’s craft. From mastering the art of storytelling to navigating the intricacies of the publishing world, the journey demands dedication and resilience. Embrace every word written, every rejection faced, for they are stepping stones on the road to literary success.

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How to become a writer

CareerExplorer’s step-by-step guide on how to become a writer.

Is becoming a writer right for me?

The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:

Still unsure if becoming a writer is the right career path? Take the free CareerExplorer career test to find out if this career is right for you. Perhaps you are well-suited to become a writer or another similar career!

Described by our users as being “shockingly accurate”, you might discover careers you haven’t thought of before.

High School

For high school students aspiring to become writers, there are several courses that can help develop essential skills and knowledge in writing, literature, and language arts. Here are some recommended courses:

• English Language Arts: English Language Arts courses are fundamental for aspiring writers as they provide a solid foundation in reading, writing, grammar, vocabulary, and literary analysis. These courses typically cover a wide range of topics, including literature appreciation, creative writing, essay composition, and critical thinking skills.
• Creative Writing: Creative Writing courses offer opportunities for students to explore different forms of creative expression, including poetry, fiction, non-fiction, and drama. These courses often include writing workshops, where students receive feedback on their work and learn techniques to improve their writing style, voice, and storytelling abilities.
• Literature: Literature courses expose students to a variety of literary genres, periods, and authors, helping them develop an appreciation for literature and expand their literary knowledge. Studying literature can inspire aspiring writers by introducing them to diverse writing styles, themes, and techniques used by accomplished authors throughout history.
• Journalism: Journalism courses teach students the principles and practices of journalistic writing, including news reporting, feature writing, interviewing, and ethics. These courses help students develop research, interviewing, and writing skills essential for careers in journalism, media, or non-fiction writing.
• Public Speaking or Debate: Public Speaking or Debate courses help students develop communication skills, confidence, and persuasive writing abilities. These courses teach students how to articulate their ideas effectively, engage with audiences, and present their arguments coherently and persuasively, valuable skills for writers who may need to promote their work or speak publicly about their writing.
• Advanced Placement (AP) English Literature and Composition: AP English Literature and Composition courses are rigorous, college-level courses that prepare students for advanced literary analysis, critical thinking, and writing skills. These courses may offer opportunities for students to earn college credit by taking the AP exam and demonstrate their proficiency in English literature and composition.

Educational Paths

Aspiring writers have various educational paths to pursue to develop their craft and advance their careers. Here are some common educational options for writers:

• Bachelor's Degree in English, Creative Writing, or Journalism: Many colleges and universities offer Bachelor's Degrees in English , Creative Writing , Journalism , or related fields. These programs provide students with a comprehensive education in writing, literature, language arts, and communication skills. Students may have the opportunity to study various genres of writing, participate in writing workshops, and gain hands-on experience through internships or campus publications.
• Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing: For writers seeking advanced training and mentorship in creative writing, pursuing a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree can be beneficial. MFA programs typically offer focused instruction in writing fiction, poetry, nonfiction, or screenwriting, along with opportunities to workshop manuscripts, receive feedback from faculty and peers, and develop a portfolio of writing. Many MFA programs also offer teaching assistantships or fellowships to help students fund their education while gaining teaching experience.
• Master's Degree in English Literature or Composition: Some writers may choose to pursue a Master's Degree in English Literature or Composition to deepen their understanding of literary history, theory, and criticism. These programs offer opportunities to study classic and contemporary literature, literary analysis, and scholarly research methods, which can enrich a writer's knowledge and inform their writing practice. Students may also have the option to focus on creative writing within a literature or composition program.
• Certificate Programs and Workshops: Writers looking for shorter, more specialized training may consider certificate programs or workshops offered by universities, writing centers, or literary organizations. These programs often focus on specific genres, topics, or aspects of writing, such as fiction, poetry, screenwriting, memoir, or professional writing. Certificate programs and workshops provide opportunities for intensive study, skill development, and networking with other writers and industry professionals.
• Continuing Education and Professional Development: Even after completing formal education, writers can continue to hone their craft and stay current in the industry through continuing education courses, conferences, seminars, and online workshops. Many organizations, such as writing associations, literary festivals, and writing retreats, offer opportunities for writers to further their skills, connect with fellow writers, and gain inspiration from established authors.

Writing Workshops and Conferences

There are numerous writing workshops and conferences that offer valuable opportunities for writers to improve their craft, connect with fellow writers, and learn from industry professionals. Here are some popular options:

• The Writing Excuses Workshop and Retreat: Organized by the hosts of the Writing Excuses podcast, this workshop offers intensive writing sessions, critiques, and discussions on craft and career development. It takes place in different locations each year and focuses on various aspects of writing, such as worldbuilding, character development, and story structure.
• The Bread Loaf Writers' Conference: Held annually at Middlebury College in Vermont, the Bread Loaf Writers' Conference brings together writers of all genres for workshops, lectures, readings, and networking opportunities. It features faculty members who are established authors, editors, and literary agents, providing valuable mentorship and feedback to participants.
• The Tin House Summer Workshop: Hosted by Tin House magazine, this workshop offers week-long intensives in fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. Participants have the opportunity to work closely with acclaimed authors, attend craft seminars, and participate in readings and discussions. The workshop takes place in Portland, Oregon, and welcomes writers at all stages of their careers.
• AWP Conference & Bookfair: The Association of Writers & Writing Programs (AWP) hosts an annual conference and bookfair that brings together thousands of writers, editors, publishers, and literary professionals from around the world. The conference features panel discussions, readings, book signings, and networking events, making it a valuable resource for writers looking to connect with the literary community and learn about the latest trends in publishing and writing.
• GrubStreet's Muse & the Marketplace: Held in Boston, Massachusetts, GrubStreet's Muse & the Marketplace conference offers workshops, seminars, and one-on-one manuscript consultations for writers of all genres. It also features keynote presentations by bestselling authors, literary agents, and editors, as well as networking opportunities with fellow writers and industry professionals.
• The Writers' Digest Annual Conference: Organized by Writers' Digest magazine, this conference offers workshops, panels, and pitch sessions with literary agents and editors. It covers a wide range of topics, including writing craft, publishing, marketing, and author platform development, making it a comprehensive resource for writers looking to further their careers.

Build a Strong Portfolio

Building a strong portfolio as a writer is essential for showcasing your skills, experience, and versatility to potential clients, publishers, or employers. Here are some steps to help you create a compelling writing portfolio:

• Select Your Best Work: Start by reviewing your past writing projects and identifying pieces that demonstrate your strengths, creativity, and expertise. Choose a variety of samples that showcase your range as a writer, including different genres, styles, and formats.
• Tailor Your Portfolio to Your Audience: Consider who will be viewing your portfolio and tailor your selection of samples accordingly. If you're applying for a specific job or freelance project, include samples that are relevant to the position or industry. For example, if you're applying for a content marketing role, include samples of blog posts, articles, or social media content.
• Showcase Diversity: Include samples of different types of writing, such as articles, blog posts, essays, poetry, fiction, non-fiction, copywriting, technical writing, or scripts. This demonstrates your versatility as a writer and your ability to adapt your writing style to different audiences and purposes.
• Provide Context: For each sample in your portfolio, provide a brief introduction or explanation that gives context to the piece. Include information about the purpose of the writing, the target audience, any relevant research or interviews conducted, and the results or impact of the piece if applicable.
• Polish Your Work: Before adding samples to your portfolio, review and revise them to ensure they are polished, error-free, and representative of your best work. Pay attention to grammar, punctuation, spelling, and overall clarity. Consider seeking feedback from peers, mentors, or editors to help refine your writing.
• Create a Professional Presentation: Present your portfolio in a professional and visually appealing format. You can create a digital portfolio using a website, blog, or online portfolio platform, or compile a physical portfolio using printed samples or a PDF document. Choose a clean, organized layout that highlights your writing samples and makes them easy to read and navigate.
• Update Regularly: Keep your portfolio up-to-date with your latest and best work. As you complete new writing projects, add them to your portfolio to showcase your ongoing growth and development as a writer. Consider periodically reviewing and refreshing your portfolio to ensure it remains relevant and engaging to your audience.

Employment Opportunities

Writers have a wide range of employment opportunities across various industries and sectors. Here are some common employment options for writers:

• Publishing: Writers may work for publishing houses, literary magazines, or online publications as staff writers, contributing writers, or freelance writers. They may write articles, essays, reviews, or features for print or digital publications, covering topics such as news, culture, entertainment, lifestyle, or specialized fields like science, technology, or finance.
• Advertising and Marketing: Writers can pursue careers in advertising agencies, marketing firms, or corporate marketing departments, creating content for advertising campaigns, promotional materials, websites, social media, and other marketing channels. They may write copy for advertisements, slogans, product descriptions, email campaigns, press releases, or branded content.
• Content Creation: With the rise of digital media and online platforms, there is a growing demand for writers to create content for websites, blogs, podcasts, videos, and social media channels. Writers may work for media companies, digital agencies, content marketing firms, or as independent freelancers, producing articles, blog posts, videos, infographics, or other multimedia content.
• Journalism: Writers can pursue careers in journalism, working for newspapers, magazines, online news outlets, or broadcast media organizations as reporters, correspondents, editors, or columnists. They may cover local, national, or international news, investigative reporting, feature stories, opinion pieces, or specialized beats such as politics, business, sports, or arts and culture.
• Technical Writing: Technical writers specialize in creating documentation and instructional materials for technical or specialized audiences. They may work for technology companies, engineering firms, healthcare organizations, government agencies, or software companies, writing user manuals, product guides, technical specifications, training materials, or software documentation.
• Publishing and Editorial: Writers may work in publishing and editorial roles, such as editors, copywriters, proofreaders, or literary agents. They may review and edit manuscripts, provide feedback to authors, develop publishing strategies, or negotiate book deals. Some writers may also pursue careers as literary translators or ghostwriters, helping others bring their ideas to life.
• Education: Writers with expertise in writing, literature, or language arts may pursue careers in education as teachers, professors, or writing instructors. They may teach writing workshops, literature classes, composition courses, or creative writing programs at schools, colleges, universities, or community organizations.

Certifications

Unlike some professions that require specific certifications or licenses, writing as a profession typically does not have mandatory certifications. However, there are several optional certifications and credentials that writers can pursue to enhance their skills, credibility, and career opportunities. Here are a few examples:

• Certified Professional Writer (CPW): Offered by the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches (PARW/CC), the CPW certification is designed for professionals who specialize in resume writing, business communication, and other forms of professional writing. This certification demonstrates expertise in writing effective resumes, cover letters, LinkedIn profiles, and other career documents.
• Grant Writing Certification: Many organizations and institutions offer certification programs or courses in grant writing, which can be valuable for writers interested in pursuing careers in nonprofit organizations, government agencies, or fundraising. These programs typically cover grant research, proposal writing, budgeting, and grant management.
• Technical Writing Certification: The Society for Technical Communication (STC) offers a Certified Professional Technical Communicator (CPTC) certification for technical writers. This certification demonstrates proficiency in technical writing, editing, and communication skills, as well as knowledge of industry standards and best practices.
• Editorial Certifications: Editors may pursue certifications such as the Certified Professional Editor (CPE) credential offered by the Board of Editors in the Life Sciences (BELS) or the Certified Copyeditor credential offered by the American Copy Editors Society (ACES). These certifications demonstrate proficiency in editing skills, grammar, style, and publishing standards.
• Project Management Certification: While not specific to writing, project management certifications such as the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI) can be beneficial for writers who work on large-scale writing projects or in project-based environments.
• Creative Writing Programs: While not certifications in the traditional sense, completing a creative writing program or obtaining a degree in creative writing from a reputable institution can provide writers with valuable training, feedback, and mentorship from experienced authors and faculty members.

Associations and Organizations

There are several professional associations and organizations that cater to writers, providing resources, support, networking opportunities, and advocacy for their members. Here are some notable associations for writers:

• The Authors Guild: Founded in 1912, The Authors Guild is the oldest and largest professional organization for writers in the United States. It provides legal assistance, advocacy on issues affecting authors' rights, contract advice, and resources for professional development.
• The National Writers Union (NWU): The NWU is a trade union representing freelance writers in all genres and fields, including journalists, authors, poets, and technical writers. It offers contract advice, grievance assistance, health insurance, and other benefits to its members.
• The American Society of Journalists and Authors (ASJA): ASJA is a professional organization for nonfiction writers, including freelance journalists, authors, and content creators. It offers networking events, professional development opportunities, and resources on topics such as contract negotiation and copyright.
• The Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America (SFWA): SFWA is an organization for writers of science fiction and fantasy literature. It provides advocacy, networking, and resources for its members, including access to professional guidelines, legal assistance, and health insurance options.
• The Mystery Writers of America (MWA): MWA is a professional organization for writers of mystery fiction, including authors, editors, publishers, and agents. It offers networking events, awards programs, and resources on writing craft and industry trends.
• The Romance Writers of America (RWA): RWA is a professional association for writers of romance fiction. It provides networking opportunities, educational resources, and advocacy on behalf of its members, including support for diversity and inclusion in the romance genre.
• The Association of Writers & Writing Programs (AWP): AWP is an organization for writers, teachers, and students of creative writing. It hosts an annual conference, publishes a literary magazine, and provides resources on writing education, publishing, and literary events.
• The Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI): SCBWI is a professional organization for writers and illustrators of children's literature. It offers networking events, conferences, workshops, and resources on writing and publishing for children and young adults.

How to Become a Writer in 9 Simple Steps [2024]

by Sarah Lentz

on Aug 12, 2024

You’re here because you want to learn how to become a writer.

A quick Google search led to mountains of advice, leaving you with more questions than when you started!

But you’re determined to figure out, once and for all, how to grow your talent on a career path that not only puts food on the table but changes your life in ways you can’t put a price on.

In the simple steps below, you’ll learn how to decide what kind of writing to focus on and where to find the best writing jobs once you do.

Ready to take those first steps toward becoming a professional writer ?

Let’s dive in.

How to Become a Writer in 9 Steps

Who doesn’t love a step-by-step approach to making great things happen?

No one’s saying it’ll happen overnight. But, by giving each of the following steps your full and patient attention and taking action every day, you’ll make steady and measurable progress.

This is how you go from being an aspiring writer to landing a great writing job.

1. Choose a Path

Your decision to become a writer is just the beginning. When it comes to professional writing for an income, you have several rewarding paths to choose from:

• Blogging : Build an audience by writing on your own platform (or guest post on other blogs)
• Freelance writing : Write high-quality content for clients and publications
• Copywriting : Write marketing copy and assist with branding
• Writing nonfiction books : Share knowledge and earn royalty income
• Fiction writing: Tell stories and earn royalty income
• Ghostwriting : Merge your skill with another’s voice to write books or create viral content
• Journalism: Write for a newspaper and/or magazines
• Technical writing: Write technical manuals, instructions or reports

Some of these probably excite you more than others. And you wouldn’t be the first writer to try more than one path before settling on the best fit.

How do you decide where to begin?

• Learn as much as you can about the paths that interest you.
• Talk to experienced bloggers, journalists, ghostwriters , etc.
• Try your hand at writing jobs for different paths (part-time).

Whatever you try, be honest about your inclinations. For example, if you have a passion for creative writing, you probably wouldn’t enjoy working as a technical writer. The truth is, when you’re writing what you love (or what you don’t), it shows.

2. Get Over Yourself and Just Get Started

You’re sitting there in front of a blank page, wondering, “Why did I think becoming a writer would be easy? How do I start a writing career if I can’t think of what to write?”

Both are fair questions. The first step to writing more easily, though, is to stop self-editing in your head before the words get a chance to come out.

Get over the idea that every sentence you write has to be perfect. Your fear of making mistakes, or of making something less than perfect, is the monster behind writer’s block and procrastination.

But to be a great writer, you need something stronger: R esilience .

It’s in there, I promise.

And it’s what makes it possible for all types of writers to face harsh criticism, to get back up, and to keep on writing .

3. Write Every Day

Writer’s write. And professional writers write every day.

That might sound inflexible. But those who take their writing seriously make time for it in their daily routines.

If it’s something you only do when you feel inspired, it’s a hobby, not a career.

Unless you’re nocturnal, you probably have more energy in the morning than you do in the evening; carve out some of that time for your new writing habit.

Here are some ideas on what to write:

• Journal entries
• Blog posts and ideas
• Emails or letters
• Freewriting with prompts
• Creative writing exercises

Along with using a habit tracker app (like this one ), many writers find it helpful to set a minimum word count target for the day – or a minimum number of minutes spent writing.

Apps like PomoDoneApp use the Pomodoro technique to help you accomplish more in manageable chunks of time.

Start with something you know will be manageable for you, even when you’re tired and your brain just doesn’t wanna (because those days will come).

But a year from now, if you stick with your daily practice, you’ll have sharpened your writing skill and learned how to keep going when the going gets tough. And both will serve you well.

4. Focus on “Deep Work”

In order to do your best work, you need a writing space that’s free of distractions. Only when you immerse yourself in your writing can you enter a flow state, where the “deep work” happens.

It isn’t so much about working “smarter, not harder.” It’s working smarter and harder to get the best possible results. And that doesn’t happen when you multitask.

It happens when you take the following steps seriously (including #6):

• Clarify your goals and prepare. Know what you want to accomplish before each day, each week, each month, etc., begins.
• Automate what you can. Use project management tools to automate your workflow and free up more time for deep work.
• Focus on one thing at a time. Choose one task and give all your attention to that for 40 minutes to an hour or two.
• Create a daily ritual. Create a dedicated space and allocate a specific time period for your daily deep work sessions.
• Silence social media. It’s a distraction you don’t need. Allocate separate, small blocks of time for this.
• Quit when you’re done. No points for overdoing it. Your brain needs quality rest to do quality written work.
• Read the book, Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World , by Cal Newport, and keep it as a helpful reference and reminder.

5. Read More

Being a good reader is essential to being a good writer. And what you choose to read will often influence the way you write.

With that in mind, we’d like to recommend a few good books on writing :

• On Writing Well: The Classic Guide to Writing Nonfiction by William Zinsser (best book on the mechanics of the language)
• Save the Cat by Blake Snyder (best book on story structure)
• Story Engineering by Larry Brooks (storytelling and novel writing)
• CA$HVERTISING: How to Use More than 100 Secrets of Ad-Agency Psychology to Make Big Money Selling Anything to Anyone by Drew Eric Whitman (structure and mechanics for copywriting)
• On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King (best book on being a writer)

You don’t know what you don’t know yet. And you’ve yet to discover how the books you read will change your path as a writer.

One way to make sure you get some quality reading in during the year is to make yourself a monthly reading list with books in the following categories:

• Books on the craft of writing
• Books like the ones you want to write
• Books you read for fun

Your list doesn’t have to look like every other writer’s, but don’t underestimate the value of a sincere recommendation.

6. Always Be Learning and Leveling Up

If you’re wondering what kind of education you need to be a better writer , we have some good news: you don’t need a college degree to earn a good income with your craft (though, it doesn’t hurt ).

What you do need is to keep learning and developing as a writer.

Aside from reading good books, there are other ways to continue your education:

• Take online courses on platforms like Udemy , Skillshare , or MasterClass.com
• Level up with certification-based writing programs like those offered by Smart Blogger
• Take a college writing course or earn a writing degree, such as an MFA, a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature, Communication Studies, or Journalism, or an industry-focused Associates degree
• Submit your best work to writing contests
• Set up a writer’s website and learn how to develop it into an asset

As you’ll see in the next tip, you can learn plenty from your fellow writers as well as from readers (particularly those who read the kinds of written content you want to write).

Leveling up your interaction with them should be an integral part of your plan.

7. Join a Writing Community

No writer is an island. That’s especially true if you plan on getting paid.

It’s never too early to join a writing community and to start learning from other members and sharing what you know.

• Facebook groups for writers (Search “writing,” and you’ll find plenty)
• Facebook groups for your chosen genre or writing path
• LinkedIn groups
• Local writing groups (Look up “[nearest city] writing groups”)
• Online communities like CampNaNoWriMo and Critique Circle
• Networking events for writers like the Writer’s Digest Annual Conference

Put yourself in situations where you’ll meet other writers, particularly those drawn to the same paths that interest you.

Whatever stage you’ve reached, you have valuable insights to share, and so do they.

Learn what you can to help each other grow.

8. Find Paid Writing Opportunities

Once you’re ready to start writing for money, it’s time to get acquainted with all the best places to find paid writing opportunities:

• Job boards: Problogger , FlexJobs , and FreelanceWriting.com
• LinkedIn: in writing or industry-specific groups
• Facebook: in content writing or niche-specific groups
• Writer guidelines for magazines and book publishers
• Social media channels like Twitter and Instagram

Make time for daily checks of job boards .

Look through guidelines for magazines and publishers that interest you. And allocate some time for job searching on social media channels where you’ve built connections with fellow writers, editors, and publishers.

9. Cultivate Credibility

Once you’ve received your first payment from a client, don’t forget to ask for a testimonial. Think of it as a way to ensure you’ve met all their expectations.

Each well-crafted testimonial benefits you in the following ways:

• Shows client satisfaction, gratitude, and even loyalty
• Articulates exactly how you benefited each client
• Acts as a referral to build trust in potential clients
• Gives you a chance to increase a good client’s visibility
• Helps you discover areas that need improvement

With that last one, you may have to read between the lines and ask your client for clarification. But none of these benefits come without asking.

And when you’re starting out, it’s an easy thing to forget.

If you’re worried the client will be annoyed by your request, we can tell you (from experience on both sides) if your client is happy with your work, they’ll be happy to write something complimentary about it.

If they’re not sure exactly how to write a testimonial , you can even write one for them to review and approve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do writers get paid well.

It’s not hard to find success stories of writers who earn six figures (or more) with their craft. Famous authors like Liane Moriarty and Stephen King come to mind.

That said, no content writer starts out with the promise of a six-figure income, no matter how good they are. And it’s best not to quit your other job until you’ve met one of the following enviable conditions:

• You’re consistently earning enough with your writing to replace the income you’d lose, or
• You have solid evidence your writing income, plus any other household income, will more than make up for it.

Do I Need a Writer’s Website to Be Successful?

While you can host your writing profile on sites like Contently or LinkedIn , you wouldn’t own the platforms. With a self-hosted website, you can create a profile on your own piece of online real estate.

But those aren’t the only benefits of owning your own platform:

• You can start a blog of your own with niche-focused content
• You can earn affiliate income with your blog posts
• You can create stylized links to your writing samples and portfolio

Your writer’s website displays your qualifications and gives future clients a taste of your personality, too.

Don’t worry, maintaining an online platform doesn’t have to be a full-time job. And using a site builder like Elementor (affiliate link) makes it that much easier.

The sooner you create one, the sooner you can share your new online address.

How Do I Start a Writing Career When I Still Have a Job?

You don’t need to be unemployed or have loads of free time to get started on building a profitable writing career.

Whatever path you choose, you can set aside time for the following:

• Daily writing
• Skimming job boards
• Creating a writer website
• Taking an online class
• Connecting with other writers

Do what you can every day to get closer to your writing goals.

Final Takeaways on How to Become a Writer

Whatever writing path you choose, nothing happens until you take action.

The secret to becoming a successful writer isn’t magic or destiny. It lies in what you do consistently, even when you’d rather do something else.

Take a moment now, look through the steps again, and jot down some ideas for this week to get the wheels in motion.

Then hit the Freelance Writing Hub and read up. Or make time for some of our favorite podcasts for writers .

Setting S.M.A.R.T. goals is just the beginning. Smart habits are what will get you there.

Sarah Lentz

The ultimate toolkit for becoming one of the highest-paid writers online. Premium training. Yours for free.

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Last updated on May 02, 2022

How to Become a Writer: 7 Practical Steps

About the author.

Reedsy's editorial team is a diverse group of industry experts devoted to helping authors write and publish beautiful books.

About Linnea Gradin

The editor-in-chief of the Reedsy Freelancer blog, Linnea is a writer and marketer with a degree from the University of Cambridge. Her focus is to provide aspiring editors and book designers with the resources to further their careers.

If you’re dreaming of turning your passion for writing into a full-time career, you’re in the right place. In this post, we’ll go through a series of actionable steps that you can take to start writing professionally. 

Here are 7 steps to help you become a writer:

1. Create a solid writing routine 

Here are a few tips for establishing a writing habit:

Make writing a priority. If you want to be a professional writer, set non-negotiable time in your calendar for writing and arrange your other commitments around it. 

Define your writing goals. Whether it’s a daily number of words or completing a task in a set number of days, goals help break larger projects into manageable chunks — so you’ll be less overwhelmed and more likely to knuckle down and write.

Identify your ideal writing times . Do you tend to get the most done right after waking up in the morning, or during the quiet hours of the evening? Figure out your windows of productivity and capitalize on them.  

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However, no matter how watertight your writing routines are, every author can benefit from a helping hand to perform at their best and become an even better writer. Thankfully, there are some apps for that.

2. Use writing tools to improve your output 

Different tools can impact your output in different ways: for example, online whiteboards like Miro can help you visually sketch out your book’s outline and character bios, and help you define the mood of your world-building. Tools like Grammarly can identify and fix typos and grammatical errors, whereas browser blockers like Cold Turkey can help to minimize distractions and stay productive. 

When it comes to using professional writing software, you could use tools like Reedsy Studio to enjoy smooth collaborative editing, keep track of your word count goals, and format your book for distribution. 

Which writing app is right for you?

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Finally, workspace tools like ergonomic chairs and standing desks can also largely influence the quality and proficiency of your writing (we also hear that houseplants can boost creativity, but don’t quote us on that).

But, before you get too comfortable in your writing nook surrounded by all your lovely tools, you may want to consider going back to class…

3. Take classes to pick up credentials

• Journalist — write for newspapers and magazines. Requires top-notch research skills, the ability to be objective, and to meet strict deadlines.
• Columnist — write for newspapers and magazines. Unlike journalists, columnists offer their subjective opinion and insight on current events.
• Travel writer —  chronicle your adventures across the globe to give advice and inspiration to other travelers.
• Copywriter — write marketing copy for brands, companies, or organizations.
• Technical writer — turn complex jargon into concise information that users of a product or clients of a company can clearly understand.
• Web content writer — write online blog posts and articles for brands, companies, or organizations.
• Ghostwriter — write content on behalf of other people or organizations. Learn more about becoming a ghostwriter here!
• Grant writer — write documents to help organizations seeking grants.

The options are plentiful. But if you think you’ll need academic credentials, let's take a look at your choices in closer detail. 

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You needn't look too hard to find authors who emerged from MFA programs to establish glittering literary careers. For example, both Flannery O’Connor and Rachel Kushner are MFA babies.

Then again, you can find just as many authors who didn’t study anything related to writing and worked in completely unrelated industries before becoming bestsellers  — like Charles Bukowski (a postman), Haruki Murakami (a jazz club manager), and even Harper Lee (an airline ticket clerk). After all, life experience is a key ingredient of any good fiction.

Becoming a novelist doesn’t require any specific credentials beyond the ability to write (and market) a great story. Pursuing an MFA can certainly help you develop your craft , network with established and aspiring writers, or lead you to some creative writing gigs, but it’s not a shortcut to success. In addition, the majority of MFA programs focus on literary fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry. So if you want to become a genre fiction writer rather than express yourself in verse , an MFA is likely not a necessary stepping stone for you.

Bachelor’s Degree (BA)

While higher education is not a required credential for becoming a novelist, academic qualifications can be more important for nonfiction writers. In many cases, success as a nonfiction author relies upon your subject authority and often necessitates the relevant credentials as proof. That might include a degree or other relevant experience in the field. Imagine yourself picking up a nonfiction book and turning it over to read the author's bio: what kind of credentials would assure you this is someone who knows what they’re talking about?

In terms of journalism, most news outlets will require applicants to have completed a Bachelor’s degree before adding them to the payroll. While majoring in journalism is certainly a sound option, many news outlets require a literature degree or similar, as you’ll have many of the same skills but no biases in your journalistic practices. It's also typical to double-major or major-minor in a combination of journalism and the field you’re interested in writing about.

Doctorate (Ph.D.) 

A Ph.D. in literature or creative writing is often preferred by people who want to teach literature or writing at college or university levels. Overall, a doctorate may also be appropriate if your writing draws extensively from academic research or scientific findings — as it will give you more subject-matter authority. 

Associate Degree

An associate degree typically lasts two years and can be more industry-focused than a BA. If you’re hoping to become a copywriter or web content writer, pursuing an associate degree in media, marketing, or writing might be a good way to lay the foundation for your career.

Certificate

Certificates are short-term programs that provide foundational education and skills-based training. They typically last a few weeks to a few months, and, as with the associate degree, it’s a good option if you want to get paid for your texts .

4. Seek opportunities to publish your work

If you’re an aspiring fiction writer, follow the likes of Ursula K. Le Guin and Ernest Hemingway, and get your foot in the door by submitting your short stories to magazines and contests. Here are a few places where you can do just that:

• Literary magazines accepting submissions: here
• Vetted writing contests and their deadlines: here
• Reedsy’s own weekly short story contest: here
• Publications accepting short story submissions: here

To ensure your t’s and i's are all properly crossed and dotted, here is a submissions checklist that’s sure to keep you straight!

Make the process of writing your first novel easier by using a story template like the one below.

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Use this template to go from a vague idea to a solid plan for a first draft.

Nonfiction writers have ample opportunity to get their byline out in the world too. If there’s a particular niche you’re interested in, start by putting together a list of relevant publications. Most websites will have a submission section with guidelines for submitting a piece. 

Follow specific editors on Twitter to keep up with when magazines are accepting pitches. They will usually tweet when their inbox is open (and what they’re looking for in a pitch) — plus many of them are open to questions. If you don't know where to find them, look for names via magazine websites, the publication’s LinkedIn page, or simply use the Twitter search function. Editors of magazines usually tell you who they are in their Twitter bio!

Put your pitches and deadlines in a calendar

Next, get your ‘pitching calendar’ organized by listing the outlets you want to write for, your premise for each pitch, and any deadlines to keep in mind. You might also want to make note of any feedback you receive. For instance, an outlet might let you know that your piece wasn’t right for them “at this time,” or they might clarify what they’re looking for in more specific terms. 

Here are a few resources that connect writers with publications looking for submissions:

• Authors Publish Newsletter
• NewPages Classifications
• Funds for Writers Newsletter

Consider self-publishing

If you have a book idea you can’t stop thinking about (or are searching for inspiration ) and your goal is to see it materialized, then you might want to consider self-publishing. Getting your book out into the world is easier than it’s ever been, and we’ve detailed the whole process in another guide. Plus, you can do it in your own time. 

Though some traditionally published household names nab hundreds of thousands in advances, those are the outliers. Many more self-published authors make a living from their writing than their traditionally published counterparts: this report found that the number of indie authors earning five to six figures per year from book sales was much higher than the number of Big 5 authors earning the same. 

If you’re still on the fence about which publishing route to take, why not take this one-minute quiz to find out for sure which option is the most viable for you?

Is self-publishing or traditional publishing right for you?

Takes one minute!

Once you start to get a few publications under your belt, it’s time to put them together in a nicely bundled portfolio that shows the world (and potential clients) what you’re capable of. 

5. Create a strong portfolio 

Create a website

To create your own website, you must first register a domain name on services like GoDaddy or Namecheap (e.g. authorname.com), or sign up for a free site with services like WordPress, Wix, or SquareSpace (e.g. authorname.wordpress.com) 一 although the first option is more professional. If you're not too confident in your tech skills, consider hiring a professional web designer who can help you build a website that stands out.

Use a portfolio site

If you don’t want to spend too much time designing a website, you can always turn to a trusted portfolio site. All you need to do is create an account with them and input your personal information. Here are a few popular options:

• MuckRack: a popular platform for journalists and PR professionals.
• Contently: a useful site for content writers.
• Clippings.me: provides a clean-cut design for every kind of writer.

Perfect your website

Your author website should reflect your personality, list your credentials, and most importantly — show your work. 

There are different ways to present your portfolio: you could divide your writing into different niches like Jennifer Fernandez , or you could go for a concise bio that packs a punch in terms of insight into your professional background as in Alice Driver ’s portfolio. For author websites, it’s key to give visitors a clear route to buying any books you’ve published (check Austin Kleon ’s example). 

Once your website is live, it might take a while for word of mouth to spread and for job opportunities to come your way. So, while you get the ball rolling, consider reaching out to organizations that could help you support your dream (read: paying the bills!).

6. Apply for writing grants 

Here’s a reliable list of grants for you to peruse — some will have no stipulations regarding what the money is spent on, and others will be for specific reasons, like traveling to a writers’ retreat or conference. There are also many grants specifically intended to help marginalized communities get a leg up in the industry. Make sure you check out our video guide for some helpful advice on making a successful application.

Whether or not your career will benefit from scoring a grant, you’ll soon learn that if you want to reach new literary heights and establish yourself as a writer, you’ll need the help of other professionals in the space.

7. Collaborate with professional editors

An editor’s bread and butter is to revise your work so that it’s ready for the big stage, from spotting plot holes, improving text quality, and examining your manuscript for inconsistencies before its release. More than that, working with an editor will teach you about the ins and outs of the publishing industry — including the all-important standards and best practices of the literary world. 

Finding a good editor is always a type of collaboration worth investing in if you want to speed up your development and make a leap forward in your journey to become a professional writer.

Hopefully, this post has shown you how to get things going so that you can make writing a financially viable career. To wrap things up, there’s nothing quite as inspiring for budding writers as words of wisdom from those who have achieved writerly acclaim. So tuck into these brilliant books about writing, and then pick up your pen and get going. We look forward to seeing your name in print!

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How to Become a Writer in 2024: 10 Steps to Jumpstart Your Writing Life

by Joe Bunting | 35 comments

So you want to become a writer.

Perhaps you write because it makes you feel alive. Perhaps you once read a book that made you think, “It must feel amazing to write something like this. Maybe I could be a writer.” Perhaps you feel like you can't not write.

So then, how do you do it? How do you become a writer ?

Get the Free eBook : 10 Steps to Becoming a Writer contains the best wisdom I've learned on how to become a writer. This post contains the steps from the full eBook. Click here to download the eBook .

Several years ago I became a writer. I'm not talking about the moment when I quit my job to write full-time. That happened much later. No, I became a writer when I started writing .

I still remember making the decision to write and publish one article per day on my blog. It wasn't much, but this small habit was the beginning of my life as a writer.

Since then, I've written numerous books and more than a thousand articles. I've been published in national magazines and became a bestselling author. But that one decision changed my life.

No one is born a writer. You must become a writer. In fact, you never cease becoming, because you never stop learning how to write. Even now, I am becoming a writer. And so are you.

Why do you want to become a writer? Share in the comments section .

10 Steps to Becoming a Writer

Below are the best pieces of wisdom I've learned about how to become a writer. To read more about becoming a writer, get the full guide below.

Really? Step number one is to publish?

It’s strange to begin a list of writing tips with a tip to publish. In fact, as I read books and articles about how to become a writer, most of them don’t even mention it. They usually say, “Just Write!”

However, writers write things other people read, and so the act of publishing is essential to being a writer.

What is stopping you from publishing something today?

Seriously. What is stopping you?

Think you need a writing degree or a formal writing background? You don't.

Think you need years of writing experience or a letter of introduction from Stephen King? You don't.

Let's rethink publishing for a minute.

Like most people, you probably think of publishing as the process of getting an agent who will attract Harper Collins or some other New York publisher to pay you a small advance and a portion of the royalties so they can print and sell your book.

However, publishing can also look like posting your articles on a blog or emailing your short stories to a friend. It doesn’t have to be groundbreaking, and it doesn’t have to be perfect.

If you want to become a writer, you need to get used to writing for others. You need to practice taking feedback and dealing with rejection. You also need to start earning some fans.

You do this by publishing: publishing small and regularly.

What is stopping you from printing out one of your writing pieces and giving it to a friend? Or publishing it online as a blog post or even a Facebook note?

Do you have one friend who would be interested in reading your writing today? I’m betting you do. Why not send them one of your writing pieces now? (Yes, now.)

Think of it as practice for when you publish with that big New York publisher. (It could be a while, so you may have a lot of time to practice.)

This one step of sharing your work stops so many writers from meeting their goals. Successful writers publish.

2. Set deadlines, or better, get someone else to set them for you (and then keep them)

I love deadlines. I love the whooshing noise they make as they go by. —Douglas Adams, author

Deadlines are meant to induce stress. I know none of us really wants more stress in our lives (do you?), but most writers I know struggle with two things: discipline and focus. A good deadline helps with both.

A little bit of stress focuses you. A good deadline can keep your butt in the chair and your fingers on the keys much better than “inspiration,” that fickle muse, ever could.

How, then, do you set good deadlines so they don’t whoosh by as they did for Mr. Adams?

The best deadlines are set by others, by editors or freelance writing clients or even your fans.

The most effective deadline I ever set was to write one article on my blog every day. I did this while maintaining a full-time job. What made this deadline especially effective was the people holding me accountable were my readers, a small group at the beginning but eventually a large, clamoring audience.

When you know people are waiting for your writing, you become a much more disciplined writer.

People are waiting for your writing. When are you going to give it to them?

3. Learn how to tell a great story

Writers tell stories.

If you want to write novels or memoir or short stories, this is obvious.

What if you're writing self-help or reference? You still need to learn to tell a good story. When firefighters hear stories about the close calls of their friends, it activates the same part of the brain as if they were going through that experience themselves. Then, when they experience a similar situation, they’re better prepared because of the stories they’ve heard.

Stories are the best teachers.

What if you’re writing marketing or sales copy? What is marketing but telling a story of how a consumer’s life could be different if they bought your product?

Whether you're a content writer or you do other business writing, fiction or creative writing, you will always tell stories.

All writers tell stories. Great writers tell great stories. Learn to tell great stories.

4. Read widely

I wanted to become a writer because I read a few books that made me feel like someone finally understood me.

I became a better writer because I read books that I didn’t fully understand and kept reading them until I did (some I’m still reading).

Professional writers are readers. If you want a writing career, add reading to your list of writing goals this year.

Read inside your genre. Read nonfiction in your area of expertise. Read the types of writers you hope to emulate in your own writing. Read outside your usual interests and genres to get a sense of how other talented writers see the world and use words to capture that reality (even when it's fiction!)

5. Commit to learn

Writers are learners.

When I’m writing an article or a chapter in a book, I often have ten or twelve tabs pulled up on my browser as well as a few books open in front of me, all of them research and resources to make my writing better, more detailed, more lifelike.

Writers bring information to people who have never heard it. We can turn a few words on a page into a whole universe inside our reader’s imaginations. We can look into the souls of our characters and share their story in a way that our readers fully understand them.

We do all of this through learning, learning about politics and current events, craftsmanship and science, about emotions and spirituality.

Writers should never become experts. Once you become an expert, you can no longer learn anything new, and if you don’t learn anything new you will become stale and uninspired. Be a novice in everything and you will never run out of things to write about.

“Good artists copy, great artists steal,” Steve Jobs liked to say.

He was “quoting” Picasso, but this quote has also been attributed to James Joyce and William Faulkner and Stravinsky among others.

But the quote actually originated with T.S. Eliot, the great modernist poet, who wrote, “ Immature poets imitate; mature poets steal; bad poets deface what they take, and good poets make it into something better, or at least something different.”

When Ernest Hemingway was first beginning as a writer, he would type out whole sections of books by writers he admired just to get a sense of the flow and rhythm of their writing.

When I was working my first job as a freelance writer for a local newspaper, I printed out ten of the best articles I could find from the New York Times and the Los Angeles Times, and then carefully read through each one, taking notes and asking, “Why did the writer say this here? What is the purpose of this sentence? How does this word move the story forward?”

Whenever I begin a new writing project, I read something that I admire to inspire and motivate me.

Cormac McCarthy, author of The Road and All the Pretty Horses , once said, “The ugly fact is books are made out of books.”

There is nothing new under the sun. The question, then, is which books are you going to make yours out of? And how are you going to turn them into something better (or at least something different)?

I once read a short story about a boy who wanted to become a writer that stuck with me (although, I’m forgetting the title, so if you know it, email me!).

The story begins with the news that a man in their small ranching community had been killed. To help with the body, the boy and his father and uncle leave late at night and walk through the wilderness.

It would be the boy’s first time seeing death, and when they came upon the body, he was terrified and looked away.

“You want to be a writer?” his uncle asked.

The boy nodded.

“Then don’t you look away. Don’t you ever look away.”

I’ve seen things I have wanted to look away from. I’ve seen legless boys pull themselves around on a cart to beg for coins from passing cars. I’ve seen hillsides covered with slums, people living amidst trash and human waste with just cardboard and tin for shelter. I’ve seen death.

If you want to be a writer, you must know death and pain and evil and injustice, know it as intimately as you know your soul. A writer’s job is to bring the bad to life just as well as the good.

Don’t look away.

8. Become acquainted with boredom, comfortable with writing-induced misery.

At some point, I've wanted to quit every major writing project I've ever worked on, and most writers I know have similar experiences.

When I was finishing my first book, I became so frustrated and hopeless with my writing that I knelt on the floor, put my face in my hands, and cried (a very macho, manly cry, of course).

“I don’t want to do this anymore,” I thought. “I don’t want to write this book. I don’t want to be a writer at all anymore. I never want to feel this stupid again.”

But after a little while, I got up, and I wrote a few more words. The next day, I wrote a few more. A month later, the book was finished and sent off to the editor.

That moment on the floor was the turning point, the beginning of the end of writing my first book, and now I remember that moment every time writing is at its most frustrating and hopeless, and I know I’m nearly finished.

Write through the mess. Write through poor grammar and awkward tense changes and switches in POV. Keep writing even when you know as you’ve known nothing else before that what you’re writing is worthless. When you’re in the middle, good and bad are meaningless. Just keep writing.

9. Surround yourself with a writing community

We think of great writers as silent, brooding geniuses, but the truth is no one becomes a writer on their own. It takes a team, a community, to sustain the passion, creativity, and sheer willpower to become a writer.

The truth is, the best writers have always had a community. Ernest Hemingway had F. Scott Fitzgerald, Gertrude Stein, and the expats in Paris. Jack Kerouac had William Burroughs and the Beats. J.R.R. Tolkien had C.S. Lewis and the Inklings. Virginia Woolf had Leonard Woolf and the Bloomsbury Group.

“You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with,” said Jim Rohn.

If you aren’t spending time with creative people and fellow writers who inspire you and challenge you to do your best writing, perhaps you need to make a few new friends.

Don’t know where to find one? Join ours! thewritepractice.com/join

10. Oh, and don't forget to write

Let me close with one last story.

Several years ago, I did something that changed my life. I started writing. In fact, I finished one writing piece every day.

I had, of course, written before. I had even started a few novels (that were soon abandoned). I had written essays for school and a few bad poems for fun. I had haphazardly practiced my writing skills.

However, when I started finishing one writing piece per day, something happened to me. I started to think of myself as a writer.

A real writer.

This led to getting small jobs as a writer, freelancing for a local paper, editing books for friends. It took a while (and a lot of practice), but eventually, I was able to quit my job and support myself and my family full-time through my writing.

It all started by finishing ONE writing piece regularly. That small habit changed my life.

I’m passionate about helping other writers go from being aspiring writers to becoming daily writers. If you’re ready to step into your writing habits, start with practice exercise below.

No matter what you do next, know that I’m rooting for you and your success.

Are You Ready to Become a Writer?

Some people will tell you it's easy to become a writer. They'll say, “Just write!”

But if you're like me, “just writing” isn't enough for you. You want to write something important, something that touches people at their very core, something that changes the world.

That's not too much to ask, right?

Writing like this is hard. But of course, if it's so important, it should be hard. Let's do it together.

Download the full eBook, 10 Steps to Becoming a Writer .

Today, set a timer for fifteen minutes and write one small section or post you've had burning inside you. Here are some ideas in case you get stuck:

If you're writing fiction or memoir, write a scene about a choice one of your characters made that they regret, and have the character justify their choice.

If you're writing nonfiction, omplete the sentence: Everyone thinks _____ when really _____. Explain what you mean. If you've just finished reading something, spend the fifteen minutes writing a review of it. Who would love it and why?

When you finish, post your practice in the comments below, and give feedback to a few other writers. When complete, give yourself a high-five because in just fifteen minutes, you'll have completed at least four of the steps above. Come back tomorrow and let's do it again!

Joe Bunting

Joe Bunting is an author and the leader of The Write Practice community. He is also the author of the new book Crowdsourcing Paris , a real life adventure story set in France. It was a #1 New Release on Amazon. Follow him on Instagram (@jhbunting).

Want best-seller coaching? Book Joe here.

35 Comments

It was strange getting published as the first step to being a writer, but it makes a lot of sense. We have to put ourselves out there; be willing to be vulnerable and show what we can do. One of my goals for the upcoming year is to submit more stories to journals and blogs. There’s a blog I follow that posts short story and flash fiction contests. As such, there are opportunities to get published and, at the same time, refine my craft.

Thank you for sharing these steps. It certainly takes discipline and dedication to be a writer. But the reward is worthwhile, even if it isn’t instantaneous.

Indeed, George! It is absolutely worthwhile.

And regarding publishing, I think we need to start looking at publishing differently. We need to stop looking for approval from some corporation in New York (not that there’s anything wrong with them or they’re approval), and start sharing our work through whatever means we have. It really is the best and fastest way to improve.

Being a “writer” is easy. It’s fun to get inspiration and drift away into meandering stories. It’s so easy to put words together when we know that no one else will ever read them. Sure there are times when writing is for my eyes only, but what you have said is so true and encouraging: writing is meant to be shared. Being a writer that shares her work is definitely something I’m not as comfortable with, but it’s an area that I want to keep improving. Oh! And thank you for the new e-book! I’m looking forward to reading it!

For some reason, I don’t run into not wanting to share, unless I truly think something I’ve written is terrible. I love to write, edit, and share. It seems that most writers dislike some part of that process, but I enjoy all three of them. It is a wonderful feeling to be able to stand next to something that you’ve created with two hands, and say, “I made that!”

It is usually more than the next guy can say. More over, it is probably inspiring to the next guy. Why not share it?

You should be proud of yourself. Look how much time you spent actually doing something, as opposed to how many people came home from work and plopped down in front of the tube?

James I can relate so much to your statement about standing next to something you’ve created with your own two hands. For me writing is like art work, you start with a blank canvas – your blank piece of paper- (or a mound of clay for a sculptor) and create then when you edit you chip away words you don’t need as a sculptor chips away and smooths out sections of their finished piece. It can be so rewarding- especially when the finish product is what we were aiming to create.

That is so cool, James. Thank you for sharing that!

Oh, I figured it was going to be: 1. Write. 2. Write some more. 3. Keep writing.

I could also go for: 1. Write 2. Revise 3. Share

I wanted to keep you on your toes, James. Anyway, I think that post has already been written a few times. 😉

cried (a very macho, manly cry, of course).

If there were tears it can’t be very macho. You might should use a better verb. 😛 Cry baby! 😀

I just need to FINISH my first novel, it’s at 150k and still not done. It is quickly becoming the never-ending story. Where the heck are the bounds of Fantasia!

I started a NaNoWriMo book and I’ve almost finished it. My second novel looks like it will be my first.

Haha. Real men cry, James.

150K is a lot of words James! You should break it up and make it into a series.

Congrats on winning NaNo!

Joe thank you for this post, and the e-book I was at that place last night as I was finishing a story ( with a deadline). For this assignment for class we had to write a 1,000 word story and I could not first finish the story and second figure out how to write this piece so it not only mattered to me but also would matter and touch someone else as well.

Sitting at my computer I had moments of saying” I quit, forget this, I don’t want to write anymore”. But another part of me wouldn’t give up- writing for me is like breathing, if I don’t do it I don’t exist, so I kept writing and eventually I did finish with 10 more words than allowed, but that can be fixed during editing. My final project became a cross between it’s a wonderful life and scrooge. My secret if it is a secret is to see and keep the end sentence in mind – And I did.

Now on to the next project.

Congratulations on finishing your story, Debra! If you’ve written seriously at all, you’ve been in that “I quit, forget this” place before. Good job powering through (although for me, wimpering through would be a better way to put it.) And great tip to keep the last sentence in mind!

Hey Joe….

Thank you for sharing your heartfelt insights with us!

Your post did make me smile because – in my opinion – the best article that I have ever written was titled: “Just Write”, and I wrote it while waiting for my husband to finish his racquetball session! My argument was simple: you can either wait forever for inspiration – and the ‘right’ setting – to write or JUST WRITE!

I get what you mean though. I do believe that writing SOMETHING is a prerequisite to creating meaningful work. If you never write, you will never evolve and can never offer any value. But even if your writing sucks (initially), just putting out your words consistently will make a difference in the future. I have read some random ramblings that are far more empowering than structured posts written by the elite writers. So trust your passion and PUBLISH 😀

Thank you so much for making me think 😉 Kitto

I absolutely agree with, Krithika. Too many people believe the myth that you have to wait for inspiration to write. I hope you didn’t read this post as me disagreeing with you!

Becoming a writer, to me, is an identity shift. We may be “writing,” whatever that looks like, but we still don’t feel like a writer. This post is about getting to a place where you not only feel like a writer, you KNOW you are one at your core. I think publishing in small ways is an important step.

This is SO COOL, Joe. Congratulations. The book is beautiful…you give great advice, and I look forward to seeing this new community unfolds.

Thanks Marcy!!!

I’ve enjoyed writing since I was 7. Now I’m half a century old, and I’m still writing, but more seriously, and improving my craft by leaps and bounds.

I think I came to The Write Practice in 2011. I don’t contribute very often, but I’ve read every post. This blog is a big part of the above mentioned “improving my craft in leaps and bounds”.

In 2011 I also started keeping a “goals” journal that stared with “write every day”. When I look back at my entries I see “I want to quit”, “why am I putting myself through this”, “I’m not good at this”, etc., sprinkled in almost every other entry. And I almost did quit. But for some reason I didn’t (or maybe couldn’t).

Fast forward to 2014, and my goal was to submit one work/quarter to a contest or writing website. I know, not much, but I’m a slow writer. Well guess what, one of my stories was published on the Every Day Fiction website (one was rejected), and two weeks ago I submitted another story to a contest. In all, I submitted 5 stories this year. (1 over the goal!). And I write deliberately every day. My journal entries are so much more ebullient than they were 3 years ago. I’m so glad I didn’t quit. Thank you Joe, and the Write Practice community for helping me improve my craft and becoming a writer!

I love this so much, Wanda. It’s amazing how much practice can change your life. It’s such a gift to see how far you, one of our earliest readers, have come. Thank you for sharing this with me, Wanda. 🙂

LOVE THIS JOE! I so needed this today. You have spoken to me in a way that has rekindled my fire and desire to write. Writing is a struggle for me but I know I will not quit till I’ve become, and keep becoming, a writer. Thanks so much for this post!

Hint: You are a writer, Miriam! But someday, I think you could definitely be a professional writer, if that’s what you want. You’re on your way. Thanks for your comment.

Thanks for this. The post was a nice pick-me-up as I’m trying to gather the courage to write my first short story (via your short story eBook).

I’m nervous as heck and I can’t seem to get over “planning” to write: bullet points, charts, lists, brainstorming session and I feel a lot more at ease with these than writing the first sentence. How can I just let go and let the pen flow?

Good luck with your short story, Harvey. I think planning is great but it can become a avoidance mechanism, a way to replace the fear of uncertainty (which is present in all writing) with busywork. Here’s what I think you should do: pick one part of your plan (your favorite bullet point, index card, chart, etc), and then trash the rest. Seriously. Throw it away or delete it from your hard drive. Then start writing, and if you need to, you can use your one piece of plan for help. But you’ll be free to be imperfect and uncertain, and most of all, free to have fun!

I have a “mini” blog and have written letters to editors on a few subjects over a 30-year period, but I want to do memoir writing (lots of stories to tell), but lack confidence. I recently finished my first piece (2,000 words) and am submitting it for possible publication in a literary magazine. I hope it’s the beginning of a chapter, then a book.

What a timely post. I wanted to give up this morning. It’s my editor’s birthday, and someone asked her clients to contribute pithy phrases from her editing so they could be organized into a poem. I found some funny ones from the first draft–but they were all negative. “This book has the potential to whisk readers away to another time in another place. But it doesn’t.” Or, “He’s an old warrior, not an old fart.” Or, the worst, “Her son is dying. Why would she give a shit about your protagonist?” And I said to myself, Yeah, really. Why would anyone? So I’ll put it down, like you said, and see if my interest resurges tomorrow.

Honestly, it sounds like you need a new editor Nancy! I’m all for giving tough feedback but only if it’s slotted between encouragement. Maybe your editor is doing that but it doesn’t sound like it. Don’t give up!

So you are right again. Today I’ll pick up my pen and set a new goal: to make sure someone gives a shit about my protagonist!

I just want to become a writer because I need to put all the imagination out of my mind. Write to expurge sadness, feelings, dreams and finally feel better with myself.

I am from Brazil and being a writer here is difficult. I have read all the articles and i purchased your book to learn how can I be a writer. I just want to write in english, because I know I will have more chance. Next week I will post my first short story here. I have no problem to be criticize. All I want to do is becoming a writer.

Thanks Joe for your support.

Best regards,

André Valle

I put a number of these blog posts away for a rainy day. (Saved them ‘unread’, in an email folder) I read this one today and it resonated big time with my writing at present. Through reading and doing 15 minute writing practice on here and replying to yet another blog, I have begun to put my writing out there for others to read, and my writing self us grown at the same time.

I agree wholeheartedly that deadlines are good and a needed part of my writing. I began with Nanowrimo two years ago. I didn’t make my goal of 50,000 words but it got me started. Last year I made it and continued to write.

When the short story contest email came in I decided to join in and once there I found the critique, camaraderie and all round general support was where I wanted to be. Every Friday post is great, posted my first last week, and I am collecting posts for a writing blog of my own. I plan to start publishing them when I have a few to spare, though likely not the best idea, it is in my comfort zone at present.

I’m currently writing a travel blog which I have lots of friends eagerly awaiting each day (or so they tell me), so writing each day is becoming easier to do; I have lots of incentive.

I even have an idea for Nanowrimo this year which will provide yet another deadline.

To being a person m very great full to u that u share your thought with us but by dyeing hart I really will became a writer I wish u always encourage those people who loved writ….

Hi Joe! I don’t know if you’re going to read this because it has been two years since the last comment, but anyway, I just want to tell you “Thank you for this article”, it made me feel a little of confidence about starting my life as a writer. It’s not I haven’t felt secure about it, it’s just that while I was reading your article I was thinking “He’s right, I feel the same way, if he could make it I will too.”

I have to admit it, I usually (if not always) get into panic in front of my computer when it’s the moment to clic on the “publish” button. Actually, I thought the last step of the process “becoming a writer” was *publishing*, but I think you’re right, no matter what you’re writting, or if you think it would be better… DON’T WAIT, JUST PUBLISH IT, if it would be better, it will get better while you’re in the path of becoming a writer.

So often I start writing and then feel that what I’ve written isn’t good enough. I have so much to say and convey, but when I start to get it all down on paper it just doesn’t seem to convey what I’m thinking in my head. But I love reading and writing, always have. I want to tell a story that no one else can tell. So I preserver. thanks for the opportunity to vent !!!

Came back here after the email reminder about giving feedback.Thank you :). I have published in academic journals, blog, and on FB. I have yet to cry because of writing induced stress, mainly due to a flexible approach to deadlines. I write because I love too, I have tried to build audience for my timid writing in blog and FB, but I seem to lack feedback. I am in absolute joy to have found this site and the owner who’s ‘forcing’ me to write 🙂 English is my second language, so forgive my grammar oversights. Thank you.

…”If I hadn’t grown up on Latin and Greek, I doubt if I would know so well how to draw the very subtle line between what I call a vernacular style and what I should call an illiterate or faux naif style. There’s a hell of a lot of difference, to my mind.” precisamente esse,,,

Though am studying college 1st year.my aim is to become a writer.so that i can motivate students.there are many students who are hiding the talents.so I thought to become a writer.i need your help.i don’t know how to make a perfect quote.totally I have wrote 22 quotes. I need your help so that I can become a perfect writer.i want to let out my talent outside so that I can my post my quotes in magazines .

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Education Requirements for Writers

Getting started as a writer.

• What is a Writer
• How to Become
• Certifications
• Tools & Software
• LinkedIn Guide
• Interview Questions
• Work-Life Balance
• Professional Goals
• Writer Resume Examples
• Writer Cover Letter Examples

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Do You Need a Degree to Become a Writer?

Educational backgrounds of writers, a glimpse into the educational tapestry of writers, common educational threads among writers, do writers need specific degrees.

• Linguistic Mastery and Storytelling: Often developed through studies in literature, languages, or creative writing programs.
• Research and Analytical Skills: Essential for non-fiction writers, which can be cultivated in academic fields such as journalism, history, or even the sciences.
• Subject Matter Expertise: Writers often benefit from deep knowledge in specialized areas, which can be gained from any academic discipline.

Forging a Writer's Educational Path

• Writing Practice: Regular writing, whether through personal projects, blogging, or contributions to publications, helps to refine one's craft.
• Workshops and Critique Groups: Participating in writing groups and workshops provides valuable feedback and helps to improve writing skills.
• Continued Education: Engaging in writing courses, seminars, and conferences can keep a writer's skills sharp and up-to-date with current trends.

The Essence of a Writer's Education: Diversity and Adaptability

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Most Common Degrees for Writers

English literature or language, creative writing, journalism or communications, technical writing or professional writing, liberal arts or humanities, popular majors for writers, english literature, communications, technical writing, popular minors for writers, digital media, foreign language, why pursue a degree for a writer career, networking and professional development in writing, career opportunities with a degree in writing, degree alternatives for a writer, writing workshops and retreats, online writing courses and platforms, writing competitions and literary journals, professional writing organizations, content creation and blogging, navigating a writer career without a degree, develop a writing routine, create a diverse portfolio, master the art of pitching, build your online presence, network and collaborate, seek feedback and revise, self-publish your work, continuously learn and adapt, monetize your skills, education faqs for writer, do you need to go to college to become a writer, is it worth it to get a degree for a writer role, how important is continuous learning for a writer.

Writer Certifications

More Education for Related Roles

Crafting compelling narratives, engaging audiences with powerful words and ideas

Crafting compelling narratives to drive brand engagement and consumer action

Shaping narratives, refining content to captivate audiences and uphold brand voice

Uncovering truths, shaping public opinion through compelling storytelling and reporting

Shaping narratives and engaging audiences through compelling, creative content

Translating complex tech jargon into clear, user-friendly content, bridging knowledge gaps

CAREER PATHWAYS

Looking for the perfect job? Explore our Career Guides!

How to Become a Writer

By Andrea Delgado

Published: April 1, 2024

Embarking on the journey of how to become a writer entails a profound immersion into the art of weaving words into narratives that resonate with readers on both intellectual and emotional levels. In this exploration, we delve deep into the multifaceted path of becoming a writer, examining the trials and tribulations, as well as the practical tools and techniques essential for honing one’s craft and navigating the ever-evolving literary landscape.

Career Summary

Writer salary.

Writers’ salaries are subject to a myriad of influences that shape their income trajectory. To provide a glimpse into this dynamic landscape, we present a fundamental delineation of the writer salary across different stages of their careers utilizing data from glassdoor.com :

• Entry Salary (US$50k)
• Median Salary (US$60k)
• Executive Salary (US$98k)

Notably, the average income earned by a writer in the United States finds itself in close proximity to the national average income for all occupations.

What does a Writer do?

The writer job description involves creating written material about a wide range of subjects and in various forms. They dig into research, put together, and polish articles, essays, or reports, all while making sure they follow specific rules and meet deadlines. Writers use their knowledge to share information in a way that gets the message across clearly and captures the reader’s interest with their words.

Writer vs Author

What is the difference between a writer and an author? Becoming a writer involves crafting words into engaging content, often for various purposes such as marketing, journalism, or storytelling. Writers can earn income through freelancing or employment, contributing to a diverse range of projects.

On the other hand, an author typically focuses on creating longer-form, published works such as books or novels. While both writers and authors require strong writing skills, authors often aspire to achieve recognition through their book publications, which can contribute to their reputation and possibly higher earning potential.

Writer Career Progression

• Entry-Level Writers: individuals develop core writing skills by crafting content for various platforms.
• Mid-Level Position: Writers specialize in specific niches and genres, building a diverse portfolio.
• Senior Writers: They lead projects, oversee content strategies, and mentor junior staff.
• Recognized Author: Extensive published works and literary contributions establish a distinguished reputation within the writing community.

• Working as a writer offers the opportunity to express creativity through words while continuously enhancing communication skills.
• Writers also enjoy the flexibility of freelance work and the potential to explore diverse topics, expanding their knowledge base.
• Additionally, the satisfaction of seeing one’s words resonate with readers and having a tangible impact can be among the most rewarding aspects of a writing career.
• Working as a writer can entail coping with sporadic income due to fluctuating project demands and uncertain payment schedules.
• The solitary nature of the job may lead to feelings of isolation and a sedentary lifestyle.
• Moreover, dealing with writer’s block and the pressure to consistently produce high-quality content can be challenging, potentially impacting mental well-being.

Valuable Skills to Have as a Writer

• Proficient research abilities.
• Strong editing and proofreading skills.
• Capacity to adapt writing styles to different genres and audiences.
• Time management.
• Creativity.

Popular Writer Specialties

• Creative Fiction
• Technical Writing
• Content Marketing
• Copywriting
• Academic Writing

How to become a Writer

Do I need a degree to become a Writer?

No, a degree is not a strict requirement to become a writer . While formal education in writing or related fields can be beneficial, many successful writers have honed their skills through self-study, practice, and real-world experience. Writing is a skill that can be developed over time, and what matters most is your dedication, creativity, and ability to produce compelling content. However, certain writing careers, such as academic or technical writing, might require specialized knowledge that a degree can provide. Ultimately, your portfolio and writing abilities are often more important than having a specific degree.

How long does it take and how much does it cost to get a degree in writing?

The time and cost to obtain a degree in writing can vary significantly based on factors such as the level of the degree (associate, bachelor’s, master’s), the institution you choose, and whether you attend full-time or part-time.

Here’s a general overview:

• Associate Degree (2 years): An associate degree in writing typically takes around two years of full-time study. The cost can vary widely depending on the college or university, but community colleges often offer more affordable options.
• Bachelor’s Degree (4 years): A bachelor’s degree in writing usually takes four years of full-time study. The cost can range from $10,000 to $32,000 depending if you’re an in-state or out-of-state student.
• Master’s Degree (1-2 years): A master’s degree in writing typically takes 1 to 2 years to complete. Costs vary greatly, with public universities generally being more affordable than private ones.

Keep in mind that there are online and part-time options available, which can impact both the duration and cost of your degree. Additionally, financial aid, scholarships, and grants may help offset the costs. It’s important to research and compare different institutions and programs to get a better understanding of the specific timeframes and costs associated with obtaining a degree in writing.

Can I complete an online degree program in writing?

Yes, you can complete an online degree program in writing . Many colleges and universities offer fully accredited online writing programs at various levels, including associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees. Online writing programs provide flexibility, allowing you to study and complete coursework from the comfort of your own home or any location with internet access.

When considering an online writing program, be sure to research the institution’s reputation, accreditation status, faculty expertise, and curriculum. Look for programs that align with your goals and interests as a writer. Keep in mind that online learning requires self-discipline and time management skills to succeed, as you’ll need to balance your studies with other commitments. Overall, an online writing degree can provide you with valuable skills, knowledge, and credentials to pursue a career in writing or related fields.

Common Steps to Become a Writer

Develop writing skills.

Dedicate time to practice writing on a consistent basis, which helps refine your skills and uncover your distinct writing voice. Regular practice not only hones your craft but also allows you to explore various writing techniques and discover the individual flair that sets your writing apart. By consistently engaging in writing exercises, you gradually sharpen your proficiency, enabling you to effectively communicate ideas while expressing your unique perspective.

Valuable skills for a writer include proficient research abilities to gather accurate information, strong editing and proofreading skills for polished content, and the capacity to adapt writing styles to different genres and audiences. Additionally, time management is crucial to meet deadlines, while creativity and a keen eye for detail enhance the overall quality of written work. Effective communication skills also help writers collaborate with clients and editors, ensuring a successful writing career.

What are some web resources to learn skills to become a writer?

There are numerous web resources available to help you learn the skills needed to become a writer.

Here are some reputable platforms and websites where you can find valuable writing resources:

• Writer’s Digest University : Provides online workshops and tutorials for various aspects of writing, from craft to publishing.
• Grammarly Blog : Offers writing tips, grammar advice, and insights to improve your writing skills.
• The Write Practice : Provides writing prompts, exercises, and articles to help you refine your writing.
• Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL) : Offers comprehensive resources for academic writing, including style guides and citation guidelines.
• Daily Writing Tips : Offers daily tips and articles to enhance your writing skills and vocabulary.
• NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) : Hosts an annual writing challenge in November, encouraging participants to write a novel in a month. Their website also offers resources and community support.
• Writers Write : Provides writing prompts, resources, and articles on various aspects of writing.
• Literary Hub : Offers a wealth of articles, interviews, and insights into the writing and publishing world.

Read Widely

Delve into a wide array of genres and writing styles to broaden your understanding and draw inspiration from different literary landscapes. By immersing yourself in various types of literature, you not only enrich your knowledge base but also gain fresh perspectives that can fuel your creativity. This exploration of diverse genres cultivates a well-rounded appreciation for storytelling techniques, enhancing your ability to craft engaging narratives that resonate with a wide range of audiences.

Create a Portfolio

Gather a selection of your finest pieces, showcasing the breadth and depth of your writing prowess, which serves as a compelling testament to your skills for potential clients or publishers. Your portfolio becomes a visual representation of your journey, offering a glimpse into your writing journey, style, and versatility. By curating a collection of your most impressive work, you provide a tangible demonstration of your capabilities, making a persuasive case for why you are the ideal candidate for writing opportunities.

Submit and Network

Proactively share your work with appropriate platforms, whether it’s online publications or literary magazines, and participate in relevant writing events. Simultaneously, foster connections within the writing community by reaching out to fellow writers, attending workshops, and engaging in discussions. Through your submission endeavors, you amplify your visibility in the writing sphere, while networking provides the opportunity to exchange insights, collaborate, and forge valuable relationships that can fuel your writing journey.

Stay Persistent

Acknowledge that encountering rejections is an inherent aspect of the path; however, these setbacks should not deter your dedication to writing. Instead, use them as stepping stones for continuous growth. Continue honing your craft, nurturing a mindset of ongoing learning, and relentlessly seeking new avenues for growth. By remaining steadfast in the face of challenges, you not only develop your skills but also demonstrate the unwavering commitment that is often the hallmark of successful writers.

What are the Internship Opportunities for a Writer?

Securing a writer internship can provide valuable hands-on experience and networking opportunities.

While availability may vary, here are places to explore and potentially find writer internships:

• Research: Look into companies, publications, or organizations that align with your writing interests. Research their websites, social media , and job boards for internship openings.
• University Career Services: If you’re a student, your university’s career services office may have resources and connections to help you find writing internships.
• Job Search Websites: Utilize platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor, and intern-specific websites to search for writer internships. Use relevant keywords such as “writing internship,” “content intern,” or “editorial intern.”
• Industry-specific Websites: Check websites related to your writing niche. For example, if you’re interested in journalism, websites like JournalismJobs or MediaBistro might list relevant opportunities.
• Networking: Attend writing workshops, conferences, and local writing events to connect with professionals who might know of internship openings.
• Remote Opportunities: Consider remote internships if you’re unable to find local options. Many companies offer virtual internships that allow you to work from home.

Licensure and Certification

There isn’t a standard licensure or certification process specifically for becoming a writer, as writing is a creative skill that doesn’t typically require formal licensing. However, certain certifications and courses can enhance your writing credentials and skills.

Here are a few options:

• Copyediting or Proofreading Certification: If you’re interested in editing or proofreading, you can pursue certification from organizations like the American Society of Journalists and Authors (ASJA) or the American Society of Copy Editors (ACES).
• Technical Writing Certification: For those interested in technical writing, the Society for Technical Communication (STC) offers certification programs that can enhance your technical writing skills.
• Creative Writing Workshops and Courses: Many universities and online platforms offer creative writing workshops and courses. While these may not result in a formal certification, they can provide valuable learning experiences and help you refine your writing skills.
• Content Marketing or Digital Writing Certification: Organizations like HubSpot offer certifications in content marketing, which can be useful if you’re interested in writing for digital platforms.
• Academic Writing or Publishing Certification: Organizations like the Council of Science Editors (CSE) offer resources and training for those interested in academic writing or publishing.
• Freelance Writing Associations: Joining associations like the National Association of Independent Writers and Editors (NAIWE) or the Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA) can provide networking opportunities and resources.

Remember that the writing field values experience, a strong portfolio, and consistent practice. Certifications and courses can be beneficial in terms of learning and skill development, but they may not be mandatory for pursuing a writing career. Be sure to research any specific certifications or courses you’re considering to ensure they align with your goals and interests.

What’s the Career Outlook for Writers?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the field of writers and authors is expected to experience a 4 percent growth between 2021 and 2031, which is on par with the average rate of growth across all occupations. On average, around 15,200 job opportunities for writers and authors are anticipated annually during this decade.

What are the Job Opportunities for Writers?

Job opportunities for writers are diverse and can be found across various industries. Here are some potential job roles and types of companies that hire writers:

Content Creation and Marketing:

• Content Writer
• Social Media Content Creator
• Blog Writer
• Content Strategist

Journalism and Publishing:

• News Reporter
• Magazine Writer

Technical Writing and Documentation:

• Technical Writer
• Documentation Specialist
• User Manual Writer
• Technical Editor

Creative Writing and Entertainment:

• Screenwriter
• Scriptwriter

Academic and Educational Writing:

• Academic Writer
• Educational Content Writer
• Curriculum Developer
• Textbook Writer

Freelancing and Self-Employment:

• Freelance Writer
• Ghostwriter
• Content Creator
• Independent Blogger

Public Relations and Communications:

• Press Release Writer
• Communication Specialist
• Corporate Blogger

Nonprofit and Advocacy Organizations:

• Grant Writer
• Advocacy Content Writer
• Nonprofit Blogger

Technical Industries:

• Software Documentation Writer
• Medical Writer
• Science Writer

Entertainment and Media Companies:

• Entertainment Blogger
• Media Content Writer
• Film Reviewer

Travel and Lifestyle Companies:

• Travel Writer
• Lifestyle Blogger
• Food Writer

E-commerce and Retail:

• Product Description Writer
• E-commerce Blogger

Advertising and Publicity:

• Advertising Copywriter
• Publicity Writer

What Type of Companies Hire Writers?

Companies that hire writers can range from traditional publishing houses and newspapers to digital marketing agencies, tech companies, e-commerce platforms, educational institutions, law firms, and more. Many organizations across industries recognize the importance of effective communication and content creation, leading to a wide array of job opportunities for writers.

What is the Work-Life Balance of a Writer?

The work-life balance of a writer can vary widely depending on factors such as the type of writing, the writer’s chosen niche, their employment status (freelancer, full-time employee, etc.), and individual work habits. Many writers enjoy the flexibility to set their own schedules. Deadlines and project demands can lead to irregular work hours, including evenings and weekends.

Writers often have the option to work remotely, which can contribute to a better work-life balance by reducing commuting time and allowing for a more comfortable work environment. Writing requires focused concentration, which may lead to periods of intense work followed by breaks to recharge. Writing is a solitary activity, which can lead to isolation.

Writers may find that their creative energy ebbs and flows. This can impact their work schedule and the need for breaks or periods of rest. The pressure to meet deadlines and produce high-quality content can lead to burnout. Writers need to be mindful of setting boundaries and taking breaks to avoid exhaustion.

Many writers are passionate about their work, which can blur the lines between work and leisure. While this can be fulfilling, it’s important to ensure that relaxation and personal time are also prioritized.

The work-life balance can differ between various writing roles. For example, a journalist working on breaking news might have a more demanding schedule compared to a novelist working on a long-term project.

Setting clear goals and priorities can help writers achieve a healthier work-life balance by allocating time for both work and personal activities. Overall, achieving a favorable work-life balance as a writer requires self-awareness, effective time management, and the ability to adapt to the demands of different projects. Writers need to find a routine and approach that suits their individual preferences and allows them to maintain their well-being while pursuing their creative and professional goals.

Should I become a Writer?

Deciding whether to become a writer is a personal choice that depends on your interests, skills, goals, and circumstances. Do you genuinely enjoy writing? Are you creative and able to think imaginatively? Writing requires dedication and perseverance. Strong written communication skills are crucial for writers.

Writing offers flexibility in terms of schedule and location.  Identify the writing niche that aligns with your interests and skills. Research the job outlook for writers in your chosen niche. Understand that income as a writer can be variable, especially in the beginning. Consider the work-life balance you desire.

Writing can be personally fulfilling, allowing you to share your thoughts and stories with the world. Ultimately, becoming a writer is a journey that requires dedication, continuous learning, and a passion for the written word. If you’re willing to invest the time and effort, and if writing brings you joy and a sense of purpose, then pursuing a writing career could be a fulfilling path for you. It’s also worth exploring writing as a hobby or side gig initially to gauge your level of interest and commitment before making it a full-time pursuit.

Careers Related to Writer

• Content Marketing Manager
• Email Marketing Manager

About the Author

Read more articles by Andrea Delgado

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What is a UX Designer and How to Become One

What is a machine learning engineer and how to become one, what is a ui designer and how to become one, what is an seo specialist and how to become one, what is a recruiter and how to become one, what is a project manager and how to become one, what is a front-end developer and how to become one, what is a product manager and how to become one.

How to Become a Writer in 2024 (Step-by-Step Guide)

Wherever you look, you’ll see tons of words: on product packing, in your mobile banking app, or across billboards in town. Behind those are amazing people like yourself.

Wondering how to become a writer and get paid for your craft?

This guide covers:

• Popular writing careers
• Average writer salaries
• Ways to sell your own writing
• In-demand writing jobs

…and step-by-step instructions for breaking into the writing industry.

Types of Writing Careers

Writers get paid for their words, and many industries need them.

Here are popular types of writing you can do.

Creative Writing vs. Nonfiction Writing

Creative writing  includes prose and poetry writing. Fiction writers invent worlds, populate them with characters, and artfully build a compelling narrative using various canons of storytelling and poetics.

Nonfiction writing  is a broader category featuring all written materials that are not based on a fictional storyline. Nonfiction writers can specialize in biographies or memoirs, create instructional materials, or use their writing skills to create business communication and marketing materials.

Nonfiction writing has three subcategories:

• Academic writing . Producing scientific research articles and creating various instructional materials — textbooks, curriculums, instruction manuals, and other types of educational workbooks.
• Journalism . Writing timely, accurate reporting of recent facts, events, and ideas. You can specialize in investigative reporting or write personal essays, have a regular column, or switch between different beats.
• Business writing . This niche has the widest subset of jobs, ranging from copywriting and blogging to proposal writing and grant writing. Business writers create various content for the industry they work in.

Overall, beginning writers have no shortage of career options today.

Popular Types of Writing Careers

• Advertising copywriter
• Health writer
• News writer
• Technical writer
• Editor/copyeditor
• Scriptwriter
• Content marketing specialist
• Medical writer
• Resume writer

How Much Money Does a Writer Make?

As in any other profession, compensation for writers varies by industry, seniority level, and area of expertise.

In the publishing industry, authors make money from advances and royalties. Authors receive an average advance of  $49,360 , based on “ Publishing Paid Me”  spreadsheet data.

Royalty rates vary depending on the publishing method.

Self-published authors retain up to  70% royalty per book sold . In  traditional publishing , authors get  5%-8% royalties on paperbacks , 1 5% on hardcovers , and  20% on eBooks .

Compensation for professional writers, working full-time, part-time, or freelance writing varies a lot by profession.

Here are median salaries for full-time writing careers as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics:

• Technical writer salary : $78,060
• News reporters and journalists : $49,300
• Public relations specialists : $62,810 ‍
• Editors : $63,400

How to Become a Writer in 2024: 6 Step-Guide

If you want to seriously pursue writing as a career, here’s how to get started.

1. Decide on Your Writing Niche

You have many writing careers to choose from. But too many choices breed decision paralysis.

To narrow down your options, ask yourself: do you want to primarily do nonfiction or fiction writing?

You can always do both and change niches later on. But you have to channel your efforts into one lane to make progress faster.

Next, think about a narrower writing specialty, also known as your niche.

A writing niche is your area of expertise, where you are familiar with the subject matter, content requirements, and popular formats.

Each type of writing — medical, UX, or technical writing — requires knowledge of the industry’s best practices. For example, technical writers need to know the industry jargon, have a sharp, instructional tone of voice, and understand technical documentation formatting requirements. You can develop these skills both on the job or via formal training.

You can select your writing niche based on:

• Type of writing . Journalism, academic, fiction, or industry-specific.
• Content format . Blog posts, emails, web copy, eBook, business reports.
• Industry . Law, marketing, healthcare, retail, etc. ‍
• Your background.  Personal or professional. For example, as an accountant, you can work with finance brands.

By selecting a writing niche, you concentrate your effort on understanding the market better. This helps you develop the right knowledge and skill set, do better work — and earn more money eventually.

What Type of Writing Makes the Most Money?

Specialized writing, requiring niche expertise, pays the best.

For example, entry-level UX writers earn a median salary of  $90,000 , and senior professionals earn north of  $150K .

Medical writers have a median pay of  $95,609  annually. Content strategists, in turn, earn  $102,989/year  on average.

Fiction writing can be lucrative as well as you have no earning cap. Popular authors receive six-figure advances per book (plus royalties).

For example, Hanya Yanagihara, fashion editor and published author, received a  $1 million  advance on her third book. Elizabeth Gilbert got  $200,000  for the cult  Eat, Pray, Love  novel.

At the same time, popular self-published authors can also make it big.

Former lawyer, L.J. Ross,  sold over 4.5 million copies  of her first novel via Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing. She now earns a comfortable living from 19 other self-published novels.

But not every writer is as successful. More often, budding writers don’t make a bank from fiction alone.

Many also hold a day job, writing or non-writing, to pay the bills.

The publishing world is hugely competitive. Careers in business writing or journalism offer better job security and more stable income.Want more? Read more about  how to make money from writing .

Interviews With Writers Who’ve Done It

We interview writers from all fields and ask them how to get where they’re.

• How to Become a Technical Content Producer
• How to Become a Sportswriter
• How to Become a Freelance Content Writer
• How to Become a Published Author
• How to Become a Freelance Writer
• How to Become a Psychology Writer
• How to Become a Creative Content Writer
• How To Become a Freelance Journalist
• How To Become a Sustainability Copywriter
• How to Become a Freelance B2B SaaS Copywriter
• How to Become a B2B SaaS Technology Writer
• How To Become a Health Writer

2. Practice Writing Every Day

Good writing isn’t just talent — it’s tradecraft.

You need to continuously practice your ‘technical’ writing skills — sentence structure, narrative flow, tone of voice — and build your core skills to advance your career.

A good writer has:

• Impeccable grammar
• Rich vocabulary
• Strong research skills
• Adaptable tone of voice
• Editorial and fact-checking skills
• Interviewing skills
• Business acumen (in their niche)

Perhaps, you were taught some of those skills at high school or as part of your bachelor’s degree. But theory alone isn’t enough to produce good writing. You also need regular practice.

As Stephen King  says :

“Sometimes you have to go on [with writing] when you don’t feel like it, and sometimes you’re doing good work when it feels like all you’re managing is to shovel shit from a sitting position.”

The point of writing regularly is to build your writing muscle. The ability to produce good writing even when you are not inspired, face writer’s block, or battle your impostor syndrome.

That’s called professionalism.

To help you get to this stage, try these simple  writing exercises.

Practice free writing . Block 20-30 minutes each morning or evening to put down just about any ideas on paper. Don’t sweat about making it perfect. Try to use a tone you’d want to assume in your writing.

Transcribe others.  To develop a distinctive voice, fit for the type of writing you do, rewrite content from authors you admire. This can be a top-performing copywriting ad or a reported article. The point of this exercise is to internalize the other writer’s syntax , cadence, and ton — and absorb it into your writing.

Start a (micro)blog . If you want to specialize in online writing, which is most writing these days, start your blog. You can publish short posts on  LinkedIn ,  Medium , or  Typeshare . That’s an easy way to create several writing samples and start building a personal brand as a writer.

3. Fill In the Gaps in Education

Do you absolutely need to have a writing degree to make it big? No.

Many writers obtained unrelated associate degrees or never even went to college. Instead, they relentlessly practiced their craft.

Formal education can accelerate your writing career in the early days, especially if you’ve developed some industry connections in school. You also get to study literature, learn copy-editing basics, develop fact-checking skills, plus…expand your vocabulary and improve your grammar.

But you can also develop marketable writing skills at your own pace and on a much smaller dime.

These are some of the best ways to learn more about writing.

Books . Pick up several  books on writing  to grasp the basics of building a good story, doing reported writing, and writing at a good pace.

Online courses.  You can find free courses on  Coursera ,  edX , and  Udemy  (including those from top universities).

Alternatively, you can invest in an authored online course from a successful writer.  Copyhackers  and  Copybloggger  have two highly sought-after writer certification programs.

Writing communities  offer a great way to network and bounce ideas with peers. You can get your pressing questions answered, plus receive feedback on your work.

Some communities are free (and less structured) e.g.  Female Freelance Writers  or  Writers Unite!  Others are paid and offer carefully curated information and original content such as  The Copywriter Club  or  Workfrom Slack group .

Mentorships and apprenticeships.  Some pros offer personalized mentorship services to aspiring writers, where they share tips for building a successful career. Less often, experienced writers hire and train apprentices. Oftentimes, by subcontracting their client work to you and coaching you on the quality standards. Freelance writer Kaleigh Moore discusses these arrangements in  greater detail .

Short-term academic programs.  If you want to get a professional credential and mingle with academic advisors, you have  many MFA programs  at a four-figure price tag.

4. Start Writing Part-Time

To become a writer, you don’t need to go all-in immediately.

Elizabeth Gilbert writes in  Big Magic :

“I never wanted to burden my writing with the responsibility of paying for my life. I knew better than to ask this of my writing, because over the years, I have watched so many other people murder their creativity by demanding that their art pay the bills.”

Gilbert herself lived by that principle. Despite writing short stories and pitching book deals most of her adult life, she also held another job until Eat, Pray, Love became a roaring success.

Many other talented writers also began their careers in other niches:

• David Ogilvy , Father of Advertising, used to  train as a chef  and sell cooking stoves.
• Aaron Orendorff , pro copywriter and former Editor-in-Chief at Shopify, was once a  pastor .
• Sally Rooney , the first great millennial author, used to be a  professional debate participant .

Writing part-time is a safe way to start your professional career (unless you already have a job offer at your desk).

You can give yourself time to find your niche, create a small portfolio, and make yourself more employable by developing complementary skills.

Below are some of the most  in-demand skills for writers  (apart from writing).

Fact-checking.  Verifying facts and data; investigating sources and claims. Requires accuracy and attention to detail.

Interviewing and transcription.  Ability to interview subject matter experts (SMEs) and sources, then transcribe their input to incorporate into your writing.

Target audience research.  Requires basic market research skills and experience in working with primary and secondary data sources to create audience segments for marketing.

Search engine optimization (SEO)  includes knowledge of keyword research techniques and on-page SEO best practices — related to content structure, keyword placements, interlinking, and so on.

Content strategy.  Creation of frameworks and systematic approaches to content production based on the set marketing goals. Requires knowledge of content marketing.

Editorial planning.  Content and  editorial calendar  development and ongoing maintenance. Helps you ensure that you are producing the right content and publishing it at the right time.

Content management system (CMS) knowledge . Familiarity with WordPress, Webflow, or Squarespace CMS interfaces. Basic HTML/CSS skills are a plus.

Email marketing.  Familiarity with different types of email marketing emails. Newsletters, promo sequences, transactional emails, onboarding emails, and so on.

Conversion rate optimization (CRO).  User research, heatmap session analysis, and other types of investigations and improvements performed to optimize conversion rates.

Social media marketing.  Visual and written content creation for popular social media networks. Copy performance analysis and optimization for higher click-through rates.

Line editing and copy-editing.  The first means editing for clarity, lengths, and grammar. The second is checking the text for accuracy and consistency.

Set some basic writing goals for each month. Divide them into three groups:

• Income : target earnings cap.
• Education : training or knowledge you want to get.
• Client outreach : number of pitches or job applications to make.

Then block time to work on each. Prioritize gigs that would help you develop new skills rather than do the same work repeatedly.

Should Writers Work for Free?

It’s something you need to decide for yourself.

By publishing your writing as a guest post or magazine submission, you can land your first byline and build your credibility as a writer.

But doing bigger client projects for free devalues your qualifications and often leads to a lifecycle of poorly paid work. Writing is a job and therefore entitles you to compensation.

5. Find Paid Writing Opportunities

As a professional writer, you have plenty of options.

At the basic level, writing jobs can be:

• Contract-based

The first two usually come with an official employment contract, fixed annual salary, and extra benefits or perks.

Contract-based and freelance jobs assume self-employment. You are hired as an independent contractor, meaning you get to set your rates (mostly), but also pay income taxes and social security contributions.

You can also double as a freelance writer on the side while having a regular job. That’s a good way to supplement your income and progressively transition to full-time freelancing (which often pays more!).

Also, full-time in-house roles may be hard to get as a newbie. So you can try to combine  writing internships  with gig-based work to build out your portfolio first.

Where to Find Writing Jobs?

Job boards  like  Best Writing Jobs  curate full-time and freelance jobs. You can also check industry-specific job boards like  Mediabistro  (for marketing and copywriting jobs) or  Journalism Jobs .

Freelance writer platforms.  Instead of joining general platforms like  Upwork , look into writer-specific talent networks such as  ClearVoice ,  Contra , or  Skyword .

LinkedIn  is an easy way to connect with employers directly through networking, apply for relevant jobs (based on your profile data), and  list your freelance services  on your profile.

Online writing communities  are a great way to connect with peers, plus receive a fresh scoop on possible jobs and leads from others.  Peak Freelance ,  Superpath , and  Freelance Writers Den  are the best.

Where to Publish Your Writing?

Online and print media.  You can pitch individual publishers, follow editors on Twitter and respond to posted calls, or use  Pitch Whiz  to get centralized updates.

Trade journals  specialize in industry content for B2B decision-makers. They accept reported articles, interviews, educational and informational content from experienced writers. Muck Rack has a great guide for  pitching trade editors .

Literary journals and almanacs  publish short stories, personal essays, and narrated pieces across all genres, from love writing to sci-fi.

Most have monthly or quarterly calls for submission. Book Fox has a  list of top 100 literary magazines  to pitch.

Self-publish via Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP ). You can publish fiction and non-fiction eBooks yourself  using the KDP platform from Amazon .

6. Work on Your Brand

To become a writer, you need to publicly present yourself as one.

In other words: develop a personal brand, a promotion strategy for cultivating a certain perception of yourself. So that when people look up you online, they can understand what type of writing you do and what makes you a pro in it.

The main elements of your personal brand are the following.

Portfolio or personal website . A place where you communicate your niche, curate your clips (writing samples) and explain what services you provide.  Clippings.me  lets you create a simple portfolio website for free.  Webflow  is a more advanced builder to try out.

Social media accounts.  LinkedIn and Twitter, for example, the two platforms where people can connect with you and chat up on things. Follow  Kat Boogard  on Twitter for tips on freelancing or  Liz Willits  for advice on LinkedIn branding for writers.

Online appearances.  These range from bylined posts to personal blog posts and podcast appearances. Think of these as “breadcrumbs” you leave for potential clients to hire you.  Copyhacker’s guide  explains how to build your personal brand using guest appearances.

You don’t have to get each element perfect immediately. Treat personal branding as a work in progress.

Start with a simple portfolio website to organize your clips. Refresh your LinkedIn profile and connect with more people in the industry.

Block some time to strategize your positioning as a writer.

To do so, answer these questions:

• What industries do you want to work with the most?
• Which size of the company is ideal for you?
• What type of writing services do you excel at?
• What makes you more competitive than others in this space?

Then summarize all of the above into a short professional statement.

For example,  Marijana Kay  positions herself as a  “Freelance writer for SaaS & marketing brands, specializing in long-form, actionable blog content.”

Copywriter  Kira Hug  is a conversion copywriter for businesses who are  “ready to own who you are — the good, the bad, the surprising.”

Source:   Kira Hug .

Your positioning statement helps you communicate who you are and what type of work you like.

Also, by narrowing down to a specific niche, you can quickly develop an acute skillset and become an in-demand writer with a glowing reputation.

Conclusion: Where Do I Start as a Writer?

To start writing for a living, you should first decide on your niche, and the type of writing you want to (mostly) specialize in. Then work on creating your first writing samples.

First, mimic what other writers in your industry are doing. Pay attention to copy structure, formatting, titles and subheads, tone of voice, the pace of the narrative, and story flow. Try creating content in a similar style.

At the same time, learn extra skills. If you want to specialize in online writing, learn about SEO and content marketing. There are plenty of online courses and industry blogs with in-depth content.

Once you have some working samples, look for part-time gigs. If you can afford to, sign up as an intern or apprentice to get some on-the-job training from others (but likely no pay). Alternatively, look for entry-level freelance jobs, offering guidance and instructions to new writers.

To become a better writer, always ask for feedback on your work and try to improve each time.

Fill in the knowledge gaps and learn new things about the industry you are covering. To be a well-paid writer, you need to have an open, curious mind, passion for learning, and dedication to constant self-improvement.

FAQs About Becoming a Writer

Here are answers to several other questions new writers have.

Can you become a writer without a degree?

Yes, absolutely.  Formal education in a relevant field is helpful, especially at the early stages of your career. But it becomes less of a factor as you gain real-life work experience.

Published authors like Ray Bradbury and William Faulkner and many professional business writers became successful without a degree.

What is the difference between a copywriter and a content writer?

Copywriters specialize in persuasive and promotional copy (printed ads, landing pages, sales copy). Content writers create informational, educational, or entertainment content (blog posts, articles, news reports).

While both try to speak to a target audience in the most appealing way, copywriting attempts to encourage concrete action. Content helps develop familiarity and affinity towards the brand that publishes it.

How do I start freelance writing with no experience?

Create a set of writing samples.  These don’t have to be commissioned pieces for clients.

You can write personal blog posts, landing page samples, or short-reported pieces in your niche. Then show these to clients as a sample of what you could do for them.

Most clients are interested in your skills, not your resume. So focus on building out a small portfolio in your niche first.

What kind of careers involve writing?

Nearly every job these days involves a lot of writing — from emails to meeting notes and team reports. But if you want to primarily do writing, look into careers in content marketing, communications, PR, or journalism.

Do writers have day jobs?

Yes, many authors and freelance writers also have day jobs. In fact, it’s better to keep a day job as a published (or unpublished) author instead of living from one advance to another. Likewise, many people grow a writing business on the side and switch to it full-time when they reach a certain level of income.

Where can I sell my writing?

You can sell your creative writing to literary magazines, anthology publishers, almanacs, and individual magazines. Online platforms like  Medium  and  Narratively  also pay writers per story or per number of views. Also, you can sell non-fiction writing to print and online magazines, newspapers, and blogs. Many have open calls for submissions. You can (and should!) also connect with individual editors and pitch them your ideas.

How do authors get paid?

Authors get paid in two ways — via advances on books and through royalties. Publishers offer signed-on writers an advance to help them complete their books. Then pay out a percentage of each copy sold. Self-published authors make money from royalties only. But they get to keep a bigger percentage.

Are professional writers in demand?

Absolutely! The demand for online content writers, in particular, surged as businesses shifted to online marketing over the past 18 months. Also, writers are actively employed by tech firms to provide copy for new and current products. Between 2020 and 2030, the employment of writers and authors is projected to  grow by 9% .

How do beginner writers make money?

New writers often end up working for ‘content mills’ — platforms that pay peanuts for an unreasonable volume of work. Some also sign up for popular freelance marketplaces like  Upwork ,  Fiverr , and  PeoplePerHour .

Again, these don’t always offer great pay. A better way to make money is to apply for freelance writing jobs directly or build relationships with clients online — via LinkedIn, niche communities, or social media. In this case, you can name and negotiate your rates.

Tomas Laurinavicius

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10 Best Degrees for Writers What to study if you want to write for a living

Ready to start your journey.

Get a personalized list of degree programs that fit your needs.

If you’re a great writer, you have a versatile skill that is useful in just about every occupation. If you’re a storyteller, you might want to major in a subject that teaches you how to craft a narrative that elicits emotion. Writers with other interests can combine their passions. For example, if you’re fascinated by engineering, you could major in technical writing. The following degrees allow you to learn marketable skills and are ideal for someone who wants to write for a living.

Recommended Online Degrees for Writers

Explore our featured online programs to find the right match for you today.

1. Liberal Arts

A liberal arts degree is one of the most general and flexible options for writers. Some schools offer distinct majors under the liberal arts umbrella. Others offer specific degrees in liberal arts.

You can take courses in several categories for a liberal arts degree. This area of study includes science, technology, engineering, art, communications, economics, political science, history, psychology and sociology. Once you begin, you’ll likely narrow down your path to match your interests and talents.

A history degree can give you the foundation to research and write scripts for documentary films, for example. An economics degree can spur a career in finance writing.

Liberal arts degrees often teach soft skills, which are not easy to quantify. For example, this adaptable degree program enhances creative thinking, interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence. Students can round out their knowledge by taking some courses that teach hard skills, such as statistical analysis or medical writing.

Who Is This Degree Good For?

A liberal arts degree prepares you for a broad range of professions. It’s a good option for people who are interested in writing and creative pursuits but aren’t sure what career path they’d like to follow. Many liberal arts students are interested in expressing themselves, helping their communities and enhancing their communication skills.

What Kind of Work Can You Get With a Liberal Arts Degree?

A liberal arts degree can help you get a job in just about any field. If you’re a writer, some career paths that might interest you as a liberal arts major include public relations, non-profit administration, marketing, human resources and academic research. You’ll have a chance to use your writing and communication skills in any of these positions.

Recommended Online Liberal Arts Programs

A degree in English exposes students to a wide variety of literature. You’ll read works by historic and contemporary authors, writing analyses and critiques. Students will also learn effective communication, time management, critical thinking and creative skills.

There are typically two concentrations within an English degree program. You can choose to major in English language and literature or composition and rhetoric. If you want to be a writer, getting plenty of time to practice is important.

Some people think that an English degree is too general to help you secure a good job. However, the major allows you to be flexible. It teaches marketable skills that will help you succeed in any industry.

English majors do a lot of reading. You’ll become better acquainted with the classics and learn what made them impactful. You may not receive direct instruction on the business of writing. However, you can complement this major by minoring in a specialty to which you can apply your skills. You might want to take courses on blogging or social media marketing, for example.

People who want to develop strong written communication skills are excellent candidates for an English degree. This is a flexible option for creative thinkers who enjoy reading and writing and want to set up a flexible foundation for their career and further studies.

What Kind of Work Can You Get With an English Degree?

Surprisingly, the most common jobs for English majors are in education and law. However, many graduates with this degree also work in proofreading, editing, copywriting, technical writing and journalism. Some other career choices for writers with an English degree include grant writing positions and public relations. The average salary for someone with an English degree is $75,096.

Recommended Online English Degree Programs

3. creative writing.

A creative writing degree is ideal for someone who is extremely verbal and drawn to expressing themselves with words. A creative writing major will spend a lot of time reading, interpreting and examining existing works of literature. They’ll also practice expressing emotions, thoughts and messages in a variety of ways.

Analyzing other writers’ work exposes you to different ways of structuring your own writing. Creative writing majors do a lot of reading. You’ll learn how to critique other artists’ work as well as your own. Regular feedback will help you improve your skills. You’ll also be required to write under pressure and meet deadlines, which are valuable skills in any market.

Do you write in your spare time? A creative writing degree is ideal for people who already spend a significant portion of their life writing. You’ll be assigned plenty of writing homework while you pursue this major. If composing essays is your least favorite task, this may not be the degree path for you.

What Kind of Work Can You Get With a Creative Writing Degree?

While you don’t need a formal academic degree to get your work published, you will learn how to infuse your projects with expression and meaning if you pursue a creative writing degree. This can help you find work as a novelist or poet. But it takes time to write a book, and you need a job immediately after college.

A specialization in creative writing fosters skills that are in demand across industries, such as effective communication, critical analysis and self-discipline. Many creative writing majors go on to work in marketing and advertising, copywriting, ghostwriting, editing, screenwriting or journalism.

Interestingly, approximately 50% of creative writers are age 40 or older. This may indicate that graduates with this degree pursue jobs in other fields before writing the next great novel or take on other roles early on in their careers.

Recommended Online Writing Degree Programs

4. media and journalism.

A journalism or media degree sets you up to write for newspapers, magazines and broadcast news. It focuses on communication skills and using rhetoric to generate a clear, persuasive message. Creativity is important in this field, but so are accurate research, fact-checking and non-fiction writing. Students will learn how to present accurate information in an objective but engaging way.

Media and journalism majors may also study politics, ethics and law. They should have a good grasp on current events and have interest in learning about the political landscape. The media shapes many of society’s conventions and beliefs. Journalism majors will learn principles of persuasion, which help you build solid relationships in any workplace. Students pursuing this degree will also learn how to analyze data and statistics.

The journalistic environment is constantly evolving. The best media and journalism majors offer up-to-date courses that resonate with today’s media landscape. You might want to learn about social media influence and video editing along with formatting principles for news environments.

A journalism degree is ideal for individuals who want to make an impact on the world using their communication skills. You’ll round out your proficiency in writing by learning how to adapt your message to other media channels. If you enjoy working with people, have a curious nature and excel at organizing information into a clear, accurate message, you may be an excellent candidate for a journalism degree.

What Kind of Work Can You Get With a Media and Journalism Degree?

Many journalism majors work for print and broadcast news outlets. They may write the scripts for news stories or work as investigative journalists in the field. Journalists earn an average base salary of $62,000 per year . A degree in journalism can also prepare you for a job in marketing. The ability to transform data into an engaging message is essential in marketing. The confidence and communication skills that you gain in this area of study also position you to adapt well to a career in public relations or law.

Recommended Online Journalism Degrees

5. theater and film.

Theater and film majors aren’t just for actors. These degrees help writers develop the necessary skills for screenwriting, playwriting, arts journalism and film criticism. Courses often require students to read scripts and watch performances that are crafted by stage and cinema masters. You’ll learn about the structure and artistry behind story development in plays and movies.

Most theater and film degree programs offer plenty of courses in writing. You will develop a strong grasp of different storytelling devices. By the time you graduate, you should be well-versed in different areas, such as dramatic, expository and episodic writing. You’ll supplement your writing skills by learning about visual storytelling elements and different genres too.

People with an interest in performance art make good candidates for a theater and film degree. Many students seek to enter this field because they have a strong interest in watching films and plays. You’ll have to be able to collaborate with others and adapt your work based on external feedback.

What Kind of Work Can You Get With a Theater and Film Degree?

Students with this degree will be ready to write for the screen and stage. Film and theater graduates often pursue jobs in the motion picture industry, advertising and computer technology. Learning more about the back end of performance art prepares you to work behind the scenes in a variety of production categories.

6. Professional and Technical Writing

Professional and technical writing majors are extremely specific subsets within the liberal arts category. Some schools offer specialty courses in this category under other degree programs, such as creative writing or business. Others have distinct professional and technical writing degree programs.

Some of the subcategories of technical writing programs include technical communication, medical writing and scientific writing, and business communications.

Technical and professional writers must have a solid grasp of the English language. They must be able to organize complex information into structured documents. This degree is ideal for people who enjoy doing in-depth research and can adhere to deadlines. A love of learning helps; technical writers have to familiarize themselves with the subjects that they write about. This field usually requires technological proficiency.

What Kind of Work Can You Get With a Professional and Technical Writing Degree?

Many companies hire technical writers for instruction manuals, journal articles, professional documents and training handbooks. Many professional writers also compose press releases, draft memos and document policies. They may work in health care, law, business or the arts. The median annual salary for technical writers is $74,650, and the growth outlook is above average.

7. Linguistics

Linguistics degrees are often packaged with liberal arts, literature and creative writing programs. However, some educational institutions offer linguistics degrees as standalone majors.

Linguistics teaches you the basics of language history, semantics, grammar and rhetoric. You might study the way that different cultures have used language. Linguistics compares languages and studies their evolution. Delving into the details of language can help you craft your own writing more effectively.

You’ll develop the ability to recognize various writing styles, which makes you a more adaptable writer. Students will also learn about different aspects of discourse and persuasion.

People who love language generally enjoy diving into its particularities. Those with an affinity for writing will benefit from understanding the background of various words. Critical thinking skills are important because students will learn how to analyze language from a data-driven perspective.

What Kind of Work Can You Get With a Linguistics Degree?

A linguistics degree sets you up to be an excellent communicator. You can work in education, business, creative pursuits or the public sector. This field of study interconnects with anthropology, philosophy, psychology and sociology. Many linguistics majors go into publishing, information technology, international relations, speech therapy and language education. If you want a job that makes the most of your writing skills, you could work as an interpreter, translator, marketing specialist or editor.

8. Marketing

A marketing degree allows you to hone your writing skills while learning how to research, plan and implement effective promotional strategies. Students will learn how to research target markets, use visual, audio and verbal communication strategically and analyze the results of their efforts.

Successful marketing involves some knowledge of psychology. It’s important to understand why people behave and think the way that they do. That knowledge allows you to craft promotional strategies that will achieve the desired results.

A marketing degree program will provide some insight into psychology, linguistics and philosophy. Many marketing programs offer education about specific niches, such as digital and social media marketing.

Strong communication skills are essential for marketing. You could choose this degree program if you have a passion for sharing information in unique, creative and convincing ways. Marketing students must also be dynamic and flexible. You have to keep up with the ever-changing needs of the industry. You’ll have many opportunities to collaborate with others, which is an essential part of the marketing industry. You should be able to brainstorm with other people and develop ideas as a team player.

What Kind of Work Can You Get With a Marketing Degree?

A marketing degree is practical and highly adaptable. Every business should use strategic marketing to promote their offerings. Someone with an interest in writing can look for jobs that require top-notch verbal and language skills, such as developing social media campaigns or writing copy for printed brochures. Anyone with strong communication skills can write marketing material. A marketing degree lays the framework for you to understand intricate concepts and put them to use in industries such as entertainment, law, business, health care, retail and blogging.

9. Publishing

A publishing degree provides writers with an alternative way to influence the literary environment. Studying the publishing industry will give you a comprehensive background on business, marketing, communications and technology.

Students will learn traditional and contemporary publishing techniques. They’ll focus on industry trends and advancements. They’ll combine their visual and verbal skills to build their knowledge of design and layout standards.

Business skills are crucial for people in the publishing industry. Students who pursue this degree will learn about financial and operational functions in business. You must be able to recognize a profitable piece of literature, which involves understanding consumer markets, sales strategies and publishing channels.

Undergraduate degrees in publishing exist, but they’re not plentiful. Many students choose a more general major for their bachelor’s degree and pursue publishing at the master’s level.

If you have a love of the written word, you may want to immerse yourself in the industry. Studying publishing lets you approach writing from a business perspective. Ideal candidates for this degree are passionate about sharing important messages with the world.

What Kind of Work Can You Get With a Publishing Degree?

With a publishing degree, you can work in any department of a publishing company. You may have a hands-on position that requires some writing and editing. Alternatively, you may work in a business-oriented department, such as sales or marketing. Other publishing jobs include publicist, literary agent, production manager and contract manager.

10. Business

There is more to a writing career than putting pen to paper or fingers on a keyboard. To earn money by writing, you have to understand concepts such as supply and demand, management, entrepreneurship and economics. A business degree allows you to work behind the scenes in any field. It also provides a solid background for writers who want to self-publish or become entrepreneurs.

A business degree helps students develop soft and hard skills. You’ll learn leadership and motivational strategies that are applicable to any industry. You’ll also receive training on quantitative skills, such as accounting, data analysis and project management.

Many writers want to create content. However, others become interested in the business of writing. A business degree complements strong communication, leadership and teamwork skills. It can be an ideal area of study for people who want to expand their abilities beyond writing. You won’t have as much writing-specific coursework in this degree area as you might in English or creative writing. Still, business majors are required to complete a good amount of writing assignments.

What Kind of Work Can You Get With a Business Degree?

Strong writing skills enhance any company’s quality and reputation . If you understand business concepts and have excellent verbal skills, you will be an asset to businesses in any industry. If you’d like to use your written skills in your job, look for a position as a business writer, marketing content creator, curriculum developer or research analyst. You could also start your own business as a publisher, literary agency or publishing relations firm.

Recommended Online Business Degrees

Related Articles:

10 Best Degrees for Journalism

10 Best Degrees for Artists

10 Best Degrees for Digital Nomads

10 Best Degrees for the Music & Entertainment Industry

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• Writers and Authors: Jobs, Career, Salary and Education Information

Writers and Authors

Career, salary and education information.

What They Do : Writers and authors develop written content for various types of media.

Work Environment : Writers and authors may work anywhere they have access to a computer. Many writers and authors are self-employed.

How to Become One : A college degree in English, communications, or journalism is generally required for a full-time position as a writer or author. Experience gained through internships or any writing that improves skill, such as blogging, is beneficial.

Salary : The median annual wage for writers and authors is $69,510.

Job Outlook : Employment of writers and authors is projected to grow 4 percent over the next ten years, about as fast as the average for all occupations.

Related Careers : Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of writers and authors with similar occupations.

Following is everything you need to know about a career as a writers or author with lots of details. As a first step, take a look at some of the following jobs, which are real jobs with real employers. You will be able to see the very real job career requirements for employers who are actively hiring. The link will open in a new tab so that you can come back to this page to continue reading about the career:

Top 3 Writer and Author Jobs

... writing , state/federal employment laws, as well as Palicon Group policies and procedures ... 2. Author reports or case summaries to document investigations. 3. Search computer databases ...

The selected candidate will develop Web3 and fintech regulatory strategy proposals for elite clients; author presentations, write focused actionable reports, and drive licensing and market expansion ...

Distill information into concise written analytic reports, briefings, and strategy documents for ... Intelligence analysis and serving as a principal author of reports for federal, state or local ...

See all Writer and Author jobs

What Writers and Authors Do [ About this section ] [ To Top ]

Writers and authors develop written content for various types of media, including advertisements; books; magazines; movie, play, and television scripts; and blogs.

Duties of Writers and Authors

Writers and authors typically do the following:

• Choose subject matter that interests readers
• Write fiction or nonfiction through scripts, novels, biographies, and more
• Conduct research to obtain factual information and authentic detail
• Write advertising copy for newspapers, magazines, broadcasts, and the Internet
• Present drafts to editors and clients for feedback
• Work with editors and clients to shape the material so it can be published

Writers must establish their credibility with editors and readers through clean prose, strong research, and the use of appropriate sources and citations. Writers and authors select the material they want to use and then convey the information to readers. With help from editors, they may revise or rewrite sections, searching for the clearest language and the most appropriate phrasing.

Some writers and authors are self-employed or freelance writers and authors. They sell their written content to book and magazine publishers; news organizations; advertising agencies; and movie, theater, and television producers. They may be hired to complete specific short-term or recurring assignments, such as writing a newspaper column, contributing to a series of articles in a magazine, or producing an organization's newsletter.

An increasing number of writers are producing material that is published only on the Internet, such as for digital news organizations or blogs.

The following are examples of types of writers and authors:

Copywriters prepare advertisements to promote the sale of a good or service. They often work with a client to produce written content, such as advertising themes, jingles, and slogans.

Content writers write about any topic of interest, unlike writers who usually specialize in a given field.

Biographers write a thorough account of a person's life. They gather information from interviews and research about the person to accurately portray important events in that person's life.

Bloggers write posts to a blog that may pertain to any topic or a specific field, such as fashion, news, or sports.

Novelists write books of fiction, creating characters and plots that may be imaginary or based on real events.

Playwrights write scripts for theatrical productions. They come up with a concept, write lines for actors to say, produce stage direction for actors to follow, and suggest ideas for theatrical set design.

Screenwriters create scripts for movies and television. They may produce original stories, characters, and dialogue, or turn a book into a movie or television script.

Speechwriters write speeches for business leaders, politicians, and others who must speak in front of an audience. A speech is heard, not read, which means speechwriters must think about audience reaction and rhetorical effect.

Work Environment for Writers and Authors [ About this section ] [ To Top ]

Writers and authors hold about 142,800 jobs. The largest employers of writers and authors are as follows:

Writers and authors may work anywhere they have access to a computer.

Jobs are somewhat concentrated in major media and entertainment markets—California, New York, Texas, and Washington, DC—but improved communications and Internet capabilities allow writers and authors to work from almost anywhere. Some writers and authors prefer to work and travel to meet with publishers and clients and to do research or conduct interviews in person.

Writer and Author Work Schedules

Some writers and authors work part time. Most keep regular office hours, either to stay in contact with sources and editors or to set up a writing routine, but many set their own hours. Others may need to work evenings and weekends to produce something acceptable for an editor or client. Self-employed or freelance writers and authors may face the pressures of juggling multiple projects or continually looking for new work.

How to Become a Writer or Author [ About this section ] [ To Top ]

Get the education you need: Find schools for Writers and Authors near you!

A college degree in English, journalism, or communications is generally required for a salaried position as a writer or author. Experience can be gained through internships, but any form of writing that improves skill, such as blogging, is beneficial.

Education for Writers and Authors

A bachelor's degree is typically needed for a full-time job as a writer. Because writing skills are essential in this occupation, many employers prefer candidates with a degree in English, journalism, or communications.

Other Work Experience for Writers and Authors

Writers can obtain job experience by working for high school and college newspapers, magazines, radio and television stations, advertising and publishing companies, or nonprofit organizations. College theater programs offer playwrights an opportunity to have their work performed. Many magazines and newspapers also have internships for students. Interns may write stories, conduct research and interviews, and gain general publishing experience.

Employers also increasingly prefer new applicants to have the ability to code and program webpages or manipulate data to create a visual story using tables, charts, infographics, and maps. Online publications require knowledge of computer software and editing tools that are used to combine text with graphics, audio, video, and animation.

In addition, anyone with Internet access can start a blog and gain writing experience. Some of this writing may lead to paid assignments regardless of education, because the quality of writing, the unique perspective, and the size of the potential audience are the greatest determinants of success for a piece of writing.

Writers or authors can come from a variety of backgrounds and experiences as long as they demonstrate strong writing skills.

Writer and Author Training

Writers and authors typically need to gain writing experience through on-the-job training. They may practice writing and work with more experienced writers and editors before their work is ready for publication.

Writers who want to write about a particular topic may need formal training or experience related to that topic.

Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations for Writers and Authors

Some associations offer certifications for writers and authors. Certification can demonstrate competence and professionalism, making candidates more attractive to employers. For example, the American Grant Writers' Association (AGWA) offers the Certified Grant Writer® credential.

Certification can also increase opportunities for advancement.

Advancement for Writers and Authors

Beginning writers and authors can get a start and put their name on work immediately by writing for small businesses, local newspapers, advertising agencies, and nonprofit organizations. However, opportunities for advancement within these organizations may be limited because they usually do not have enough regular work.

Writers and authors can advance their careers further by building a reputation, taking on more complex writing assignments, and getting published in more prestigious markets and publications. Having published work that has been well received and maintaining a track record of meeting deadlines are important for advancement.

Many editors begin work as writers. Those who are particularly skilled at identifying stories, correcting writing style, and interacting with writers may be interested in editing jobs.

Important Qualities for Writers and Authors

Adaptability. Writers and authors need to be able to adapt to newer software platforms and programs, including various content management systems (CMS).

Creativity. Writers and authors must be able to develop new and interesting plots, characters, or ideas so they can come up with new stories.

Critical-thinking skills. Writers and authors must have dual expertise in thinking through or understanding new concepts, and conveying it through writing.

Determination. Writers and authors sometimes work on projects that take years to complete. They must demonstrate perseverance and personal drive to meet deadlines.

Persuasion. Writers, especially those in advertising, must be able to persuade others to feel a certain way about a good or service.

Social perceptiveness. Writers and authors must understand how readers react to certain ideas in order to connect with their audience.

Writing skills. Writers and authors must be able to write clearly and effectively in order to convey feeling and emotion and communicate with readers.

Writer and Author Salaries [ About this section ] [ More salary/earnings info ] [ To Top ]

The median annual wage for writers and authors is $69,510. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $38,500, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $133,580.

The median annual wages for writers and authors in the top industries in which they work are as follows:

Job Outlook for Writers and Authors [ About this section ] [ To Top ]

Employment of writers and authors is projected to grow 4 percent over the next ten years, about as fast as the average for all occupations.

About 15,200 openings for writers and authors are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

Employment of Writers and Authors

As traditional print publications lose ground to other media forms, writers and authors are shifting their focus to online media, which should result in some employment growth for these workers.

Careers Related to Writers and Authors [ About this section ] [ To Top ]

Announcers and djs.

Announcers present news and sports or may interview guests on media such as radio and television. Disc jockeys (DJs) act as masters of ceremonies (emcees) or play recorded music at weddings, parties, or clubs.

Editors plan, review, and revise content for publication.

News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists

News analysts, reporters, and journalists keep the public updated about current events and noteworthy information. They report international, national, and local news for newspapers, magazines, websites, television, and radio.

Public Relations and Fundraising Managers

Public relations managers plan and direct the creation of material that will maintain or enhance the public image of their employer or client. Fundraising managers coordinate campaigns that bring in donations for their organization.

Public Relations Specialists

Public relations specialists create and maintain a favorable public image for the organization they represent. They craft media releases and develop social media programs to shape public perception of their organization and to increase awareness of its work and goals.

Technical Writers

Technical writers, also called technical communicators, prepare instruction manuals, how-to guides, journal articles, and other supporting documents to communicate complex and technical information more easily. They also develop, gather, and disseminate technical information through an organization's communications channels.

More Writer and Author Information [ About this section ] [ To Top ]

For more information about writers and authors, visit

American Grant Writers’ Association, Inc.

American Society of Journalists and Authors

Association of Writers & Writing Programs

National Association of Science Writers

Society of Professional Journalists

Writers Guild of America East

A portion of the information on this page is used by permission of the U.S. Department of Labor.

Explore more careers: View all Careers or the Top 30 Career Profiles

Search for jobs:.

13 Ways To Become A Writer (2024)

It’s easier than ever to become a writer today. Here, we feature the skills you need to acquire and the most profitable careers paths available.

The writing advice and resources on this page apply to writers across various industries, niches and all types of writing. You can find resources for improving your writing skills , earning more money, and making an impact.

Writing Advice You Can Apply

If you need specific craft advice that will help you become a good writer, fear not!

On Become a Writer Today, I offer practical writing tips and advice for aspiring writers, authors, storytellers, copywriters, freelancers and more. Here’s a round-up of some of our best resources so you can express yourself clearly and accurately.

1. Pick A Genre Or Niche

Perhaps you want to write thrillers, science fiction, self-development or thriller books?

Start with one.

Most writers begin in a particular genre or niche. This approach gives them confines within which to create and also helps them determine who their ideal reader is.

Read the work of other successful writers in your niche of choice, study their work and then write a piece with your take.

Writing within a specific genre or niche and for particular audiences isn’t a bad thing. It increases your chances of finding more readers and earning more money as a writer.

Later on, when you’re comfortable with a specific genre or niche, you try another. Neil Gaiman started as a graphic novel storyteller. Now, he writes across many genres and media for adults and children.

2. Use The Right Writing Tools

Whatever type of writer you are, we profile the writing tools all types of creatives, including authors, bloggers and novelists, need to achieve their writing goals.

If you’re writing online for the first time, we also profile some of the best writing apps from across the internet, one of which will suit your creative workflow.

Discover the writing tools you need.

3. Beat Writer’s Block

Many new writers worry about turning up in front of the blank page and not having anything to write about. However, professional writers have more trouble determining what to spend time on than searching for a good idea.

You can quickly solve creative problems like writer’s block by reading great writing books, taking writing courses, journaling, and creating a system for capturing ideas as you come across them during your daily life.

Learn how to beat writer’s block .

4. Improve Your Storytelling Skills

Whether it’s an article, blog post or book chapter, the best writing informs, educates, inspires or entertains readers. Good writers and authors understand the art of storytelling. And they regularly use techniques like the hero’s journey .

If you want to become a good writer, it’s not enough to convey information on the page. You must be able to do so in a way that the reader finds memorable and engaging. That’s why we tell stories, and that’s why people read them.

Read our storytelling guide

5. Use A Grammar Checker

Many people you want to become a better writer worry about expressing themselves in the English language.

They also worry about publishing work – grammatically incorrect, unclear, confusing for readers.

You can become a better writer by publishing early and often and gradually improving your skills.

It’s easier never to improve your skills as a writer today by taking online writing courses, studying the basic grammar rules, and learning practical skills that authentic writers can use, including storytelling and writing persuasively.

Read our guide to the best grammar checker .

6. Treat Your Writing Career Like A Business

If you want to write on the side of the busy full-time day job or personal family commitments, that’s fine. Writing is a fun, creative, and rewarding way to spend free time.

But if you want to quit a dull day job and get paid full-time as a professional writer, it’s easier than ever to leap.

You can get paid for publishing books on Amazon, working as a freelance writer, copywriter, or creating content that readers, clients, and business owners love.

Compared to years ago, it’s easier never to build a lasting, profitable writing career. The trick is to become a successful writer is to treat it like a business.

Work on your craft and improve your writing skills every day by taking online courses for writers, reading the best writing books and more. Also, work on your business every day by building your brand and pitching for new writing jobs.

7. Master Self-Editing

Good writers know how to edit their work. They also separate writing and editing into tasks they perform at different times of the day. You can edit your own writing with the help of Grammarly or ProWritingAid. A good self-editing checklist helps too.

We also recommend following Robert A. Heinlein’s 5 Rules For Writers:

1. You must write. 2. You must finish what you write . 3. You must refrain from rewriting, except to editorial order. 4. You must put the work on the market. 5. You must keep the work on the market until it is sold. Robert Heinlein

That said, for longer pieces of work, it’s always best to enlist the help of a professional editor.

Get a self-editing checklist

8. Listen To Writing Podcasts

Years ago, many of the most successful writers and authors were inaccessible. As readers or lovers of their writing, we can only learn from them and their creative approach by reading their books. These days, many successful writers run their podcasts to build better relationships with their readers.

You can become a better writer by either starting a podcast aimed at your ideal audience or listening to popular writing podcasts and practising some of the lessons and writing advice you discover on these shows.

Listen to the best writing podcasts .

9. Pursue Creative Writing

Not every creative wants to get paid for their work. Some people prefer exploring creative writing because they like playing with words and expressing themselves on the page.

You can quickly improve your creative writing skills through lecturing and free writing. Creative writing can take many different forms, including journalling and poetry.

Practicing creative writing is also an excellent way to improve your craft, translating into meaningful work later on.

Learn how to master the creative process .

10. Practice Short-Story Writing

Writing short stories is a great way to improve your storytelling skills and practice different genres.

You don’t need a bachelor’s degree or creative writing MFA either. It’s a good approach if you want to learn how to write without investing a lot of time or resources.

11. Conquer Your Writing Fears

Many aspiring creatives are afraid of what people think of their work, that they’ll make mistakes in public, and face rejection.

If you want to become a professional writer, the biggest problem isn’t what people will think of you or your work, and it’s getting their attention in the first place.

Chances are an editor or even a reader will call you out on a typo or a mistake in your work at some point. But, the days of mistakes set in print permanently are over.

You can easily find, fix and rewrite these stakes and then move on. It’s better to learn from your failure than be held back by a fear of writing.

Editors of popular publications will reject or even ignore your pictures, but that doesn’t mean you should stop trying to gain a foothold in the market. Everyone has to start somewhere. Twelve different publishers rejected the author JK Rowling

Learn how to your writing fears .

12. Abandon Perfectionism

When I started writing, I spent hours every evening for months revising the same sentences. I wanted them to sound perfect, but no matter how many times I edited and rewrote them, I always found room for improvement.

If you want to find success as a writer, abandon pursuing perfectionism. It’s simply procrastination in disguise.

By all means, write and publish something you’re proud of, but if perfectionism is holding you back from pitching an editor, publishing an article or writing a book, you’re doing yourself a disservice.

It’s better to get feedback about a piece of finished writing from an editor and readers about your craft than working on a single story endlessly. That way, you can improve as a writer, and you can also take on more writing projects.

Learn how to beat procrastination

13. Learn How To Use Jobs Boards

If you want to find paying work fast or to see what opportunities exist for professional writers, browsing jobs boards is a great way of getting a feel of the market.

You can see the different types of publications and websites looking for writers, what type of niches they operate in, and potentially how much they pay.

UpWork and The ProBlogger jobs board are both good resources for aspiring content creators, bloggers and anyone who wants to break into a particular market or niche.

If you’re ready to take your writing career more seriously, you consider signing up for premiums jobs for service like FlexJobs.

Apply for many different writing jobs as editors can take a long time to get back to you, if at all. Plus, supplement your job applications by building relationships directly with editors on Twitter.

Find the best writing jobs .

The Most Profitable Writing Careers

Writers can pick from a variety of career paths. You don’t need to confine yourself to one either. For example, an indie author can easily supplement their income by blogging or freelance writing.

We cover some of the options available.

1. Try Freelance Writing

The easiest way to earn money as a professional writer is to become a freelance writer.

If you’re comfortable working the written word, it’s relatively easy to find clients and produce content for them.

You can find work as a freelance writer and earn a couple of hundred dollars each month while working another day job. Many new writers find it’s relatively easy to make money on Medium.

When you’ve an established profile, more opportunities than ever exist for freelance writers today like Writer Access or UpWork.

Become a freelance writer .

Listen to the story of freelance writer Zulie Rane.

2. Become A Content Writer

The internet thrives on content. A content writer produces articles, ebooks, guides, PDFs and even social media posts for clients. They also understand the basics of search engine optimisation, and they get paid well for doing it.

If you want to become a content writer, pick an industry or niche related to your hobbies, skills, or interests.

Then, start related informational articles on a website you own. Alternatively, set yourself up as a professional content writer and work with clients. A content writer gets paid anywhere from two to ten cents a word.

Want to get started? Practice these content writing exercises .

3. Become A Copywriter

A copywriter writes words that sell products and services and usually for business owners or clients.

Copywriters are paid more than traditional freelance writers because it’s a particular skill set requires understanding what customers want and translating their needs into persuasive copy.

Copywriting is an excellent skill to learn because even if you move on, knowing how to write effective copy will help you sell more of your digital products, courses and books. A good copywriter can easily earn over six figures a year writing sales pages, email funnels and other content.

Become a copywriter

4. Start A Blog

If you’re comfortable with the written word, start a blog.

Blogging is a long-term project, and it takes many months to pay off.

You can make a name for yourself by guest posting on popular websites in your niche and by building an email list.

Then, when your blog starts to attract website traffic, start blogging on your site and cultivate a loyal relationship with readers. Starting a blog is also a good approach if you plan to go from blog to book.

Start a blog

5. Write Fiction

Fiction writers can get paid to write by entering writing competitions or by publishing books.

Indie novelists earn a good living by writing a series and building their back catalogue. Some of the bestselling genres include romance, mystery, and thrillers.

Even if you’re going down the traditional publishing route, it’s still a good idea to learn the basics of book marketing as book promotion is up to the author.

So, get comfortable with approaches like advertising on Amazon, email marketing and building an author website.

6. Self-Publish A Book

Years ago, writing and publishing that first book meant finding a book agent and getting accepted by a book publisher. Even then, success wasn’t guaranteed.

Now, it’s easier than ever for anyone to write and self-publishing their first book, thanks to Amazon Kindle and other self-publishing options for creatives.

Once you understand the costs of self-publishing a book , you can get paid as an author of fiction or non-fiction books.

If you learn the basics of advertising, expect to earn between $250 and $1000 from your first book. Publish on Amazon and you will earn up to 70% royalties on your book. Traditionally published authors make between 10% and 12%.

Learn how to write a book .

7. Turn Your Non-Fiction Book Into A Course

If you want to earn a living writing non-fiction books, it’s certainly possible. However, many successful non-fiction authors don’t rely solely on a book to make a living writing.

Their non-fiction books build credibility for their work as a coach, teacher or creative entrepreneur.

Creatives can turn many of the ideas inside of the non-fiction book into an online course. Alternatively, if you enjoy blogging, try going from blog to blog to earn a good living from your writing. Online course sells for anywhere between $49 and $2000 plus, depending on the audience and niche.

Learn how to turn your writing into a course .

8. Write For A Magazine

Writing for a magazine is considered a prestigious writing gig. It’s appealing to see your name in print in a magazine in the shop.

Up until a few years ago, many magazines paid their freelance writers enough to live on. Thanks to the internet, it’s much harder for a magazine to break even. As a result, many magazines cut rates for freelance writers and magazine gigs are drying up.

What’s more, many readers are more likely to read articles online than in a traditional magazine. If you still want to write for a magazine, establish a personal brand.

Build up a portfolio of writing articles, and put them on your website. This approach may mean writing for free for a short period.

Next, find a few magazines in your niche and learn how to pitch an editor with good ideas. That said, you’re unlikely to earn a good full-time living by writing solely for magazines. It’s much easier to earn a good living writing online.

A magazine writer usually gets paid by commission, per piece or by word. Rates range from ten cents upwards.

9. Become A Technical Writer

Technical writing involves writing up procedures, informational articles, checklists, documentation and other literature products, services and internal company processes.

As writing careers go, it pays relatively well as a subject matter can be complex if dry.

A technical writer understands how to break down complex ideas and tasks into step-by-step processes, checklists and procedures that anyone can follow.

Thanks to the proliferation of software as a service and working from home opportunities, an aspiring technical writer can easily build a lucrative career from their home office.

Technical writing is good springboard into other types of writing, for example, copywriting, content writing, and writing for experience design.

A technical writer’s salary starts at under $40,000 but experienced senior technical writers can earn six figures a year.

10. Become A Children’s Book Author

Becoming an author of a thriller or mystery book or contemporary fiction involves writing thousands of words over the course of several months, to say nothing of revising and reworking the manuscript prior to publication. But, a good children’s book usually isn’t longer than a few hundred words.

These authors rely on a captivating hook to gain readers’ attention and on compelling imagery that illustrators can turn into pictures and other graphical elements.

If you enjoy reading children’s books, have kids or like simple but memorable stories, writing a children’s book is a good way to become an author without necessarily quitting your day job.

11. Become A Ghost Writer

Many of the bestselling titles you see on bookshelves by celebrities, entrepreneurs, politicians and public figures aren’t written by the person on the cover. A ghostwriter interviews the author and turns their life story and key ideas into a book in many cases.

Or they take a manuscript or early drafts created by the public figure or celebrity and rewrite it until it’s publishable. Becoming a ghostwriter is a lucrative career.

Still, it involves understanding how to interviewer people, translate life experiences into stories without losing some of the tone of voice and knowing how to write a book.

According to Salary.com, a ghostwriter can earn anywhere between $23,834 to $61,704 per year.

12. Join The Medium Parter Progam

The Medium Partner program pays writers each month for writing and publishing articles about entrepreneurship, personal development relationships, and other topics. Anyone can join.

About 6.4% of writers on Medium earn over $100 per month. That is a small percentage and those are full-time writers. They get featured on the homepage.

Read our guide to Making Money on Medium

Listen to advice from a top Medium publication owner

13. Start a Newsletter

Newsletters are a tried and tested monetisation method for content creators. They’re ideal for writers too. You don’t need to worry about any of the technical parts of running a website, assuming you’re comfortable promoting your newsletter to attract subscribers.

Learn how to start a newsletter readers love.

Listen to an interview with Substack founder Hamish McKenzie

My name is Bryan Collins, the founder of Become a Writer Today. I work with other writers to publish content that will help you earn a living, make an impact and share your stories with the world.

How to Become a Writer: FAQ

What does it take to become a writer.

Learn how to tell compelling stories that readers find inspiring, entertaining, educational or informative. Write every day and work on improving your craft. If you want to get paid to write, spent part of the day working on your business.

Also, consider what type of writer you want to become. Do you want to write fiction or non-fiction? Would you like to get paid for freelance writing, copywriting for blogging? Or perhaps you want to self publish books on Amazon?

It’s all possible with focus and hard work.

Do You Need A Degree To Become A Writer?

Some aspiring writers wonder if they need to get a bachelors degree or even an MFA in English for creative writing.

Take it from a professionally trained journalist: an academic program can certainly help you improve your English and storytelling skills, but it’s not a replacement for doing the work.

Anyone can become a writer, no matter their education. Many authors, like JK Rowling and Roald Dahl, didn’t pursue formal training, like a creative MFA, and they still found success as a writer.

How Can I Get Started As A Writer?

Sit down at a desk and eliminate all distractions and interruptions. Open up your word processor or even get a piece of paper and a pen.

Now, get a timer and start writing about whatever is on your mind for 15 minutes or until you produce 300-words. Don’t stop to question yourself or edit your work.

Your job is to get words out of your head and onto the blank page. (Hint: Use the Pomodoro Technique to Write). The following day, repeat this process. Keep going for several days, gradually building up your word count and time spent writing training.

By turning up consistently, you’ll learn more about the types of writing you’re good at and cultivate the discipline it takes to create regularly.

Once you’ve created a consistent writing routine, you can take the next step: writing stories, building a freelance writing career or blogging.

How to Become a Writer: Your First Steps to a Writing Career

By: Author Paul Jenkins

Posted on April 6, 2024

Categories Writing , Career

Embarking on the journey to become a writer is as thrilling as challenging. It’s a path that requires talent, passion, dedication, and continuous effort to hone your craft. Whether you dream of crafting compelling novels, delivering informative articles, or penning scripts that come to life on screen or stage, writing can be an enriching career.

Remember, the essence of writing lies in expressing your thoughts, experiences, and imagination, making it a unique and personal art form .

Building a solid foundation is essential to move forward on this creative venture. This starts with understanding the fundamental principles of writing, from grammar to storytelling, and then progressively constructing a diverse portfolio that showcases your work.

As with any profession, gaining practical experience is invaluable. This can come from various roles involving writing— blogging, content creation, journalism, or fiction writing. It’s a profession that also calls for building strong networks with other writers, industry professionals, and potential mentors who can guide and support your growth in the field.

Key Takeaways

• Developing writing skills is a continual process involving education and practice.
• Building a diverse portfolio is crucial to showcasing your abilities.
• Networking and gaining experience are essential steps in growing your writing career.

Understanding the Basics of Writing

Writing is a craft that you can develop with practice and dedication. Whether you’re interested in fiction or nonfiction , there are some fundamental skills that every writer should know.

First off, at the heart of good writing lies strong language skills. This includes a good grasp of English grammar, vocabulary, and the ability to craft well-structured sentences. Getting the basics right is crucial to communicate your ideas to your readers effectively.

Here’s a quick rundown to get you started:

• Grammar and Punctuation : The nuts and bolts of writing that make your work comprehensible.
• Style : Your unique way of expressing ideas differentiates you from other writers.
• Creativity : The flair and originality that bring your text to life.

Creative writing adds characterization, plot development, and narrative voice to tell engaging stories. Creativity is your best tool, whether drafting a short story or crafting a novel.

Remember, reading widely helps you absorb different styles and techniques you can apply to your writing. Pay attention to how established authors construct their prose. It’s not just about what is written but how it’s written – the rhythm, the flow, and the choice of words.

Improving your writing skills is a continuous journey. Keep practicing, be open to feedback, and always look for ways to fine-tune your craft. The more you write, the more your confidence and competence will grow.

Educational Pathways

If you want to turn your love for writing into a career, understanding the educational paths available to you is crucial. Whether through formal education or alternative learning platforms, there are myriad ways to hone your skills.

Obtaining a Degree

Earning a degree is a standard route for aspiring writers. A Bachelor’s degree in English , Journalism , or Communications is often recommended for those wishing to pursue a career in writing. Such programs provide a robust foundation in the arts and enhance your writing, research, and analytical skills. If you aim to dive deeper or specialize, consider pursuing a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree, particularly if you want to become a creative writer . Higher education can also offer networking opportunities, internships, and exposure to published authors through lectures and seminars.

Exploring Writing Workshops and Courses

Alternatively, numerous writing workshops and courses are available outside traditional degree programs. These often provide more flexibility and can be found online, which makes them accessible regardless of your location. Online courses can range from introductory to advanced levels, catering to your needs. Certification programs are also available and can be particularly useful to gain expertise in a specific writing domain. In-person workshops can provide hands-on experience and direct feedback from established writers, which is invaluable for your growth.

Building Your Writing Portfolio

Creating a robust writing portfolio is critical in showcasing your skills and landing rewarding writing jobs . Here’s a friendly guide to help you begin.

Gather Your Pieces

Start with collecting your best work. This can include articles , blog posts, copywriting samples, and pieces from any technical writing or freelance writing projects.

• Articles/Blogging : Feature a variety of topics and styles to demonstrate your versatility.
• Copywriting : Include ads, product descriptions, or marketing flyers.
• Technical Writing : Share manuals, FAQs, or how-to guides if relevant.

Choose a Platform

Select a digital space where you can host your portfolio. Websites like Upwork offer advice on building online portfolios, while other platforms can host your portfolio directly.

Categorize Your Content

Organize your work into categories for easy navigation. For instance:

• Technical Writing
• Copywriting

Reflect on Your Work

Why does each piece deserve a spot in your portfolio? Annotate your samples with brief notes on the project goals, role, and outcomes.

Keep It Fresh

Update your portfolio regularly with new pieces to keep it current and reflect your evolving skills.

Pitch with Confidence

With a well-prepared portfolio, you’re ready to confidently pitch to potential clients or employers in the publishing industry .

Remember, your portfolio reflects your past work and is a tool for opening new opportunities. It’s your chance to shine, so invest the time to make it genuinely represent your capabilities.

Gaining Experience Through Different Roles

You’ll need to gain experience through various roles to carve out a successful writing career. Each holds unique growth and skill development opportunities that are crucial for shaping you into a well-rounded professional writer.

Starting as a Freelance Writer

As a freelance writer , you can choose projects that align with your interests and expertise. Websites such as Upwork or Freelancer offer many writing jobs ranging from short blog posts to long-form articles. You’ll sharpen your skills with every assignment, handling diverse topics that can build a versatile portfolio.

Exploring Journalism and Reporting

Transitioning into journalism or reporting can give you robust training in meticulous research and factual writing. Whether you’re a journalist covering the latest news or creating in-depth features, accuracy, and a strong narrative are critical. Your work will often be time-sensitive, challenging you to write quickly and precisely.

Becoming an Author or Novelist

Embarking on the journey to become an author or novelist is a testament to dedication and creativity. Crafting longer works like novels demands a command of language and the ability to weave compelling stories . You could start with self-publishing to get your work out there or target literary agents to help bring your book to mainstream audiences.

Each role, be it a freelance writer, journalist, or author, can be a stepping stone in your writing career landscape, providing valuable experiences that refine your craft.

Mastering the Craft

Becoming a skilled writer involves more than just putting words on paper; it’s about honing your abilities to captivate and communicate. To help you succeed, we’ll focus on developing your distinct writing style, delving into the nuances of creative and fiction writing, and fine-tuning your editing skills.

Developing Your Unique Writing Style

Your writing style is your fingerprint in the literary world—it sets you apart and makes your work memorable. To cultivate this:

• Read broadly: Expose yourself to different genres and voices to understand the range of styles.
• Write regularly: Practice is crucial. Experiment with vocabulary and techniques to find what resonates with your voice.

Diving into Creative and Fiction Writing

Fiction writing demands a keen understanding of storytelling . Here’s how to enhance your fiction writing skills:

• Learn from the masters: Dissect the works of acclaimed authors and hone your skills through their techniques.
• Embrace inspiration: Let your imagination run free, using personal experiences or ‘what-if’ scenarios to ignite creative sparks .

Sharpening Your Editing Skills

Editing is as important as writing; it shapes and refines your work. To improve editing skills:

• Review and revise: Don’t shy away from making cuts or adjustments. Seek to enhance clarity and flow.
• Get feedback: Have your work reviewed by peers and apply their constructive criticism to exercise your writing skills.

The Role of Networking and Community

Building relationships within the writing community is vital to your writing journey. You can start by engaging with social media platforms tailored for writers, where you can share your work, get feedback, and support others.

• Connect with Publishers and Editors : Use platforms like LinkedIn to follow and interact with industry professionals. This can lead to insights about what publishers and editors are looking for.
• Enter Writing Contests : Participating in contests is about winning and getting your name out there. Many contests offer opportunities to have your work seen by a broad audience.
• Attend Writing Workshops : Workshops can be an exceptional place to meet peers and professionals. You can learn from others’ experiences, share your own, and even form critique groups.

Join Online Forums : Becoming a part of forums dedicated to writing can help you stay informed about the industry, find mentorship, and even form collaborations.

Remember, networking is about reciprocal relationships. It’s not just about what you can get but also what you can offer to others in your network . So, be active, be generous with your knowledge, and engage genuinely with the community.

Marketing Yourself and Your Work

In the journey to becoming a successful writer, knowing how to showcase your talents and writing projects is crucial. You’ll need to navigate the digital landscape, understand publishing mechanics, and put your work in front of the right audience.

Using Social Media Effectively

Social media platforms are your digital megaphone. Create engaging content related to your work and interact with your followers to build a community. Make sure to:

• Craft a consistent image : Use the same profile picture and bio across all platforms.
• Engage regularly : Post often and respond to comments to keep your audience engaged.

For instance, build a writing portfolio on social media to display your work.

Learning the Art of Self-Publishing

Self-publishing grants you control over your writing career . Key steps include:

• Fine-tuning your book : Ensure your work is edited and formatted before publishing.
• Marketing your book : Develop a marketing plan that includes social media, email newsletters, and other channels to promote your book.

Invest in your writing skills to enhance your self-publishing success.

Understanding the Publishing Industry

Having a grasp on the publishing industry is about knowing how it operates and what publishers look for:

• Learning industry standards : Familiarize yourself with query letters, book proposals, and submission guidelines.
• Networking : Connect with agents, editors, and other writers to learn about opportunities.

Making your personal self known can be a crucial strategy in marketing within the publishing industry.

Growing Your Career as a Writer

Embarking on a journey in writing requires more than just a passion for words; it involves a strategic approach to developing your career. Your success depends on clearly understanding the different writing careers available and setting achievable goals that keep your daily writing practice on track.

Exploring Different Writing Careers

There are various paths you can take to cultivate a writing career . Fiction and non-fiction writing, for example, offer different opportunities and challenges. You might consider roles like copywriting, technical writing, or content creation. Each career path has its requirements, from the creativity needed for crafting compelling narratives to the precision required for technical documentation. Research and identify the one that best aligns with your interests and skills.

Setting and Achieving Writing Goals

To prosper as a successful writer , it’s essential to set specific writing goals that are measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).

• Measurable: Track your progress by setting word count targets or hours spent writing.
• Achievable: Assess your current capabilities and schedule to set realistic goals.
• Relevant: Ensure that each goal aligns with your broader career development plans.
• Time-bound: Give yourself a deadline for each goal to maintain focus and momentum.

Incorporate daily writing into your routine; even short sessions can build up over time. Regularly reflect on and adjust your goals to ensure they continue to challenge and motivate you. Remember, consistency and willingness to learn and adapt are the keys to growth as a writer.

Lifelong Learning and Adaptation

As a budding writer, embracing lifelong learning is crucial for your development. Constantly reading broadens your horizons, exposing you to new styles, genres, and ideas. Dedicate part of your day to reading fiction, non-fiction, or poetry. Your growth as a writer parallels the diversity of your reading habits.

A steady flow of ideas fuels adaptability in writing . Reserve a notebook or digital app to jot down any fleeting thoughts. They might blossom into your next big project! Regular research keeps your work accurate and fresh. Diving into different subjects enhances your knowledge and sparks creative thought.

Cultivate a consistent writing habit . Try to write daily, even if it’s just for a short while. Your words are like muscles; they need regular exercise to remain strong and effective.

• Continuing education doesn’t have to mean going back to school. Online courses, workshops, and webinars offer flexible learning opportunities to hone your craft.
• Implement daily writing prompts to challenge yourself and to keep your skills sharp. These exercises can become a warm-up routine that leads to more serious writing sessions.

Remember, what makes you a writer isn’t just talent or inspiration; it’s your commitment to learning and adapting, one word at a time. Your passion is the fuel, but your willingness to learn is the compass that will guide your writing career.

Frequently Asked Questions

In this section, you’ll find concise answers to some common questions that can guide you on your journey to becoming a successful writer.

What are some steps to begin a career in writing?

To kick off a career in writing, identify your writing interests and choose a specific path, such as blogging, fiction, or journalism. Crafting a regular writing routine and building a portfolio of your work can help you establish a foundation for a professional writing career.

What qualifications or tools should I acquire to become a successful writer?

While formal education isn’t always necessary, enhancing your language skills and mastering the art of writing is crucial. Equip yourself with a strong command of grammar and storytelling techniques, along with tools like writing software or platforms that assist in proofreading and organization.

Can you provide tips for aspiring authors on writing a novel?

When writing a novel, develop compelling characters and a strong plot. Understand the fundamentals of conflict and investigate the characters’ external and internal struggles to create a resonant emotional arc for your readers.

How can someone break into writing for film and television?

To enter the competitive world of screenwriting, you must understand script formatting and storytelling unique to visual media. Building a network within the industry and crafting strong spec scripts can be beneficial steps in getting your work noticed by producers and agents.

Is it possible to become a writer later in life, and how might one do so?

Becoming a writer at any stage in your life is entirely possible. Start by finding your voice and dedicating time to writing regularly, regardless of age. Join writing groups for support and feedback, and don’t hesitate to share your work publicly through blogs or submissions.

What are some strategies for a beginner writer to improve and succeed in the field?

Focus on honing your craft with consistent practice and seek out constructive feedback. Understand the importance of revision in the writing process. Also, reading widely in your chosen genre can provide insights into successful writing techniques and styles.

How to Become an Author: 8 Steps to Bestselling Success

Wondering how to become an author? Well, that answer will depend on the type of author you want to be.

Maybe you’ve always been a writer at heart, and are ready to share your story with the world and earn the title of “author.”

Or maybe you’re passionate about a certain topic and are ready to help others by sharing your expertise.

Regardless of your reason – the issue still stands: you want to know how to become an author of a book and a bestselling one at that. So what is an author anyway? And how does becoming an author work?

To learn how to become an author, the short answer is: You write a book.

Sounds simple, right?  

But writing is rarely simple. So, let’s go for the more complex dilemma: How to become an author of a book that actually gets read .

You want to author a book that’s phenomenal, polished, and packed with content that readers will truly connect with.  So how do you do that?

In this guide, we’ll focus on how to become an author of a book that sells . But before we dive into the steps on how to become an author, it’s important you understand exactly what an author is.

This guide to how to become an author will cover:

What does it mean to become an author.

When you learn how to become an author, it means that you ideated, created, and produced a written work, most commonly a book, novel, short story , poem, or other literary work of prose.

Traditionally, an author meant someone who had written a book, and this connotation still stands today, but it has expanded with societal changes. The term author can actually pertain to journalists, essayists, and those in the digital space such as bloggers or article writers.

Writer vs author

What’s the difference between a writer and author , you ask? Great question.

While writer and author are often used interchangeably, there is definitely a difference between the two. An author is a writer, but a writer isn’t always an author.

How hard is it to become an author?

While the path of learning how to become an author is easier with today’s technology and the rise of self-publishing, learning how to become an author takes determination, hard work, and usually a specific set of skills (which we’ll cover more on later).

For some, opportunity comes easier than it does for others. Some people become an author and find quick success, whereas others struggle for years to complete their book and publish it.

For most people, creating a consistent writing routine and actually getting the words written is the hardest part – in which case a book writing coach could be just the person you need in your corner, keeping you motivated and accountable.

It also depends on the book publishing method, which we’ll explain more on in the publishing section of this article. For example, traditional publishing deals are hard to come by, and it is a lengthy process. On the other hand, self-publishing makes becoming an author more accessible.

How to become an author in 8 simple steps

Now that you have a deeper understanding of what being an author entails, it’s time to dive into the exact process of how to become an author.

When learning how to become an author, here are the eight steps you should take:

1. Invest in education

Learning how to become an author doesn’t have any formal educational requirements. But at minimum, a high school degree is recommended. Becoming an author mainly requires that you have a strong set of skills, like the ability to read and write well.

When learning how to become an author, having a degree isn’t required, but it can help.

There is a wide range of educational levels for authors, from those with a basic high school education to those who have completed doctorate programs. Pursuing a higher formal education degree can certainly help you learn how to become an author, but it’s not a requirement.

Whether you get a degree or not, you must be an exceptional writer and avid reader to improve your chances of becoming an author of a book that actually gets read .

Our society values higher education . When you’re exploring new careers, the first question is usually: What kind of education is needed for this job?

So, it isn’t any wonder that people researching how to become an author immediately ask what type of education or credentials are needed to write a book.

A caveat to this: If you’re looking to publish a book on a specific topic , you must be an expert in that field or industry. A college degree helps build your credibility significantly, even though it is not completely necessary.

Common degrees to consider for aspiring book writers

• English . Anyone with a college degree in English has spent the majority of their college career taking classes on writing development and reading literature for deep analysis. Those with an English degree usually have a strong command of writing, and study the works of famous authors.
• Literature . Similar to a degree in English, a degree in Literature follows the same course syllabus in the sense that it is heavily focused on reading, analyzing, and writing about literary works.
• Creative writing . Writers with a degree in Creative Writing have undergone extensive academic courses surrounding creative writing fundamentals and storytelling. Creative Writing students are expected to write rigorously to improve their craft.
• History . Because history goes hand-in-hand with many literary subjects, those with a degree in History will have a well-rounded skillset to apply as an author.
• Journalism . Writers with a journalism background are likely educated on news-style writing, features, interview processes, and more. Those with a journalism degree often have experience as newspaper columnists or feature writers, which can translate well into an author career.
• Psychology . Those who study psychology have an in-depth understanding of human behavior and interaction, which makes for great writing, especially in fiction.
• Communications . People with a communications degree often have experience in news-writing, marketing, public relations, and more, which are all fields that rely heavily on great writing skills.
• Theater/cinema . Those with a theater background make great authors and writers due to their creativity, understanding of character dynamics, and screenwriting skills.
• Liberal arts . Any degree in liberal arts is likely to be focused on heavy research and writing – no matter the field. Therefore, a liberal arts degree can set you up well for learning how to become an author.
• A degree in any subject you want to write about! If you have a particular industry or niche that you want to focus on in your writing, pursue a degree in that! For example, if I could re-do college all over again, I would pursue a minor degree in Women’s Studies, because I love to write about those topics.

Alternatives to college degrees

There are also non-degree online education options for aspiring authors to consider. These are a great choice if you want to learn how to write a book or publish a book on your own. Programs like these are focused on achieving a specific goal, and can be completed at a quicker pace. (Example: Himalayan Writing Retreat )

If you get a traditional college degree, you likely will NOT learn how to write and publish a book. So, if you know for sure that you want to learn how to become an author, you’ll save time and money by investing in a course or program that’s specific to publishing.

For example, there are many online education programs specifically for aspiring authors, including self-publishing courses.

Be sure to thoroughly do your research to make sure the program is a good fit for your needs.

Online education options

• Self-Publishing courses . Start here if you want to join an education program that provides a complete roadmap to becoming a bestselling author.
• Coursera . Consider a program where you can select specific topics to learn about.
• Udemy . You can find cost-effective micro-courses based on specific topics around writing and publishing.
• MasterClass . There are limited courses for aspiring authors on this platform, but if you’re particularly interested in learning how to improve your writing from bestselling, world-renowned authors like Margaret Atwood, check this out.
• CreativeLive . Another option for creative courses specific to certain topics around developing certain creative skills.

2. Learn the skills to become a successful author

While there aren’t any formal education requirements to learn how to become an author of a book, there are certainly some important skills that many successful writers have in common.

Consider these skills like prerequisites – you should aim to improve these skills if you truly want to learn how to become a writer.

In a society of high competition, possessing many of these skills will set you apart and increase your chances of gaining a solid readership.

The top skills needed to learn how to become an author are:

Exceptional writing development skills

Being an excellent writer who can communicate effectively through words is the premise of learning how to become an author successfully. We’ll cover more on the fundamentals of writing that you should master in the next section, but you can check out these writing websites to learn how to be a better writer.

Creative storytelling that engages

It’s an art in itself! Whether you’re writing nonfiction or fiction, no matter what genre your book falls in, you need to be able to craft an engaging story that pulls readers in.

The ability to research well

Ask any successful author, and they will tell you that a major factor in successfully writing a book is to conduct thorough research . You need to know your content in and out – whether you’re writing historical fiction, a children’s picture book , or a self-help book.

Since you’re reading this article and researching how to become an author, there’s a good chance you’re already research-savvy!

The tendency to naturally observe people and places

In order to create life-size characters, make your story come alive, and describe people and events vividly, you need to possess the power of observation. If you’re not one to naturally sit back and watch from the sidelines, try improving your observation skills .

Vulnerability and grit

Authors put everything they possess into their writing. It takes vulnerability to put your words out there, and resilience to keep at it when the going gets tough. To learn how to become an author, you’ll need to overcome some serious mental blocks, and be courageous even when you’re overworked or fearing judgment.

3. Master the fundamentals of book writing

Having an excellent command of writing skills builds a solid foundation on which to begin your author journey.

Many people can write, but not many people can write well. And if you can’t write well, that’s okay!

The good news is that there are a number of ways to improve your writing.

Writing isn’t necessarily a talent, it’s a craft. It can be cultivated. It can be strengthened. And with a growth mindset, you can improve your writing skills by mastering the fundamentals.

Some basic examples of the fundamentals of writing are being able to express ideas clearly and in an organized fashion, using powerful word choice , developing a clear point of view , and using proper grammar and punctuation .

However, there are a lot more fundamental writing techniques to learn and implement in your own writing.

• Learn the writing fundamentals. First, learn all there is to know! You can learn basic writing fundamentals by taking writing development courses, and reading books on writing.
• Study the fundamentals. Be an avid, deep reader. Don’t just read to understand the story. Read to analyze how the author told that story. Study the author’s style, specifically in the genres you want to write in. By doing this, you’ll start to identify characteristics of remarkable writing.
• Practice, practice, practice. Put what you’ve learned into practice. Remember all the literary elements you learned about in school. Start actually using those in your writing. Try mirroring an author’s style that you admire. Write often and make it part of your everyday life. Write in a journal , complete writing prompts, write letters to friends, or write short stories.
• Explore different genres. Part of finding your author’s voice and developing yourself as a writer means experimenting with other genres that you may not have written on before. Use creative writing prompts to help you practice your writing fundamentals.
• Show, don’t tell in writing . This is the number one rule to writing , and it’s important for you to master it. Practice showing and not telling in your own writing, and understand when to use it.

While you shouldn’t cut corners on your writing development, it’s important to not get stuck in this phase.

At the end of the day, you can read and take all the courses in the world, but the most growth and development you will experience is when you’re actually writing.

4. Create a positive author mindset

Many writers experience feelings of insecurity. Ernest Hemingway supposedly said, “There is nothing to writing. All you do is sit down at a typewriter and bleed.”

If writers are figuratively transforming the essence of their being into words on paper for others to read, then it’s no wonder the best writers suffer from their own insecurities and fear of judgment !

Feeling inadequate is expected, and totally normal. But the ability to pursue your goal to learn how to become an author (despite your fear) is what will set you apart from all the other aspiring book writers out there.

Steps to build a positive author mindset:

• Overcome imposter syndrome and self-doubt as a writer . Give yourself permission to be an author. Don’t shy away from calling yourself a writer – start owning it.
• Accept that you’re a work in progress. Don’t strive for perfection in writing. Maintain a growth mindset , and understand that there is always room for improvement. You are constantly learning, and improving, and there isn’t anything wrong with that. If you wait for perfection, it’ll never get done.
• Set a writing habit. Making writing part of your daily lifestyle is super important. If you tend to wait for inspiration as a writer, you’ll be left high and dry more often than not. We’ll cover more on how to set a writing habit in the next section.
• Focus, focus, focus. We’ve all been there. You sit down at the table to write, and find that an hour has passed and you’ve only churned out a few sentences. Find a focus technique that works for you and stick to it.
• Think courageously. Try not to get too bogged down in the negative “what-ifs.” What if no one likes my book? What if my writing sucks? What if this book is an entire flop? It’s okay to fear failure, but learn to shake it off and be courageous instead. For every negative thought you have, try to think of two positive thoughts!
• Define your own success. Success means something different for every author. Some writers want to share their words with the world, while others simply want to build an author’s salary to support their writing. Whatever your reason is, get clarity around your definition of success.

5. Write Your first book to learn how to become an author

To truly learn how to become an author, you have to write a book first.

The world is full of great writers with stories to share. The trouble for many is – they never get around to actually finishing a book.

It also depends on what type of book you want to write. If you want to write a nonfiction book , the process is different than learning how to write a novel . The same is true if you’re learning how to write a memoir .

This is where it can really get tough. But with grit, determination, and a clear game plan, you can do it. We’re cheering for you!

Here are the steps to write a book and learn how to become an author:  

Get clear on your foundation

Because writing a book can be an uphill battle, you want to make sure your foundation is rock solid. This means getting clear on why you want to become the author of this book. Once you’re super clear on your foundation, you’ll be able to write your book with intention.

Foundational questions you’ll want to ask yourself are:

• When do you want to have this book done by?
• How will you position the book?
• Who are you writing this book for (your target reader)?
• What is your book’s topic or genre?
• To grow your income
• To build a reputation/authority
• To fuel a passion project
• To share a story or knowledge

Brainstorm with a mind map

Letting your ideas flow freely with a mind map is an effective way to get those creative juices flowing. With so many ideas to explore for your book’s topic, mind map exercises will help you “brain dump” all your thoughts.

Follow these steps to create a mind map for your book:

• Set a timer for 10-15 minutes to start.
• Always be writing – don’t worry about grammar or spelling, just write out your thoughts without reservations!
• Start with a central idea, topic, or concept.
• Add connecting branches of key ideas that relate to that central idea.
• Jot down any words that tie ideas together.
• Use colored highlighters or sticky notes to organize similar concepts or ideas.

Create an outline

Using your mind map, start creating a basic outline for your book. Don’t get hung up on the details. Think of it in terms of a beginning, a middle, and an end. A simple outline will help you get the ball rolling as you start writing your first draft. As you dive deeper into the writing, your outline can get more detailed, and be revised as needed.

Set a writing schedule

Commit to your writing goals each and every day if you want to learn how to become an author. Set a specific plan for yourself, and set small milestones or goals, whether it’s by word count or time spent writing .

You can have all the ideas in the world, but if you aren’t setting time aside each day to actually write, then the chances of your book being completed will be low.

Tips for setting a writing schedule:

• Set up a distraction-free writing space
• Plan for short brain breaks to avoid burnout
• Set a daily word count goal
• Do NOT edit as you write
• Have a buddy keep you accountable
• Use book writing software to help you meet your daily goals
• Set a deadline to complete your book by

Write your rough draft

Sounds simple, but it’s definitely easier said than done. You can do it! The only way to write a book is to actually sit down and do it. You become a book writer by writing a completed book. Use your outline for guidance, and remember – don’t edit while you write !

Self-edit your book

Once your rough draft is completed, it’s important that you focus on self-editing your book. Although your book will go through a professional editing phase during the publishing process, if you self-edit thoroughly, your editor will be able to focus on other edits that you weren’t able to catch.

Tips for self-editing your book:

• Do a verbal read – through to find areas of improvement in your sentence structure and storyline.
• Work chapter by chapter to increase productivity and focus.
• Don’t get stuck in the editing phase.
• Remember that any points of uncertainty will be cleared up in the professional editing phase.

6. Publish your book

Through blood, sweat, and tears, you’ve committed to writing your book, and have officially become a writer.

Now, it’s time to take the next step and learn how to become an author. And that means publishing your book!

Here’s how to become an author of a published book:

Decide how to publish

Modern book writers are faced with a major decision on how to publish a book . There are two ways to publish: traditionally publish or self-publish .

You’ll have to weigh the pros and cons of each, including the cost to publish , and determine which route is more advantageous for you.

If you traditionally publish your book , this means that an actual publishing company will publish your book for you. However, landing a book contract with a traditional publisher is extremely competitive, and the chances are slim for most authors.

So what is self-publishing , you ask? If you self-publish your book , this means that you will be in charge of the publishing process yourself. There are many benefits in going this route, but you’ll need to make sure you are self-publishing the right way to ensure book quality and success .

Steps to traditionally publish a book

• Pitch your book draft to literary agents.
• If your manuscript is accepted by an agent, your book will be pitched to publishers.
• If a publisher accepts your work, you will be offered a book contract.
• The publisher will have your book edited, formatted, and designed.
• You earn royalties based on the number of books that are sold.

Steps to self-publish a book

• Find a book editor for each type of editing needed
• Hire a formatter (if needed) for your book.
• Hire a professional book cover designer to create an engaging book cover.
• Choose which self-publishing platforms to sell your book on.
• Upload the book to the self-publishing platform.

If you still need help deciding how to publish, compare your earning potential with our Book Royalties Calculator .

Book Royalties Calculator

1. my book will be published by a..., 2. my book will be an:, 3. my royalty rate will be:.

*Please note that this royalty rate is based on the market averages for paperback books. Actual royalty rates for traditional and indie publishing can vary by author depending on several factors.

4. My book’s retail price:

5. the # of books sold:, your results, your profit per book sold, for books sold, you earn:, for 1,000 books sold, you earn:, for 10,000 books sold, you earn:, royalties comparisons for 10,000 books sold, want to receive personalized tips on how to sell more books right in your inbox, 7. market your book to become a bestselling author.

Whether you traditionally publish or self-publish, you need to launch and market your book to learn how to become an author successfully.

This step is crucial because if you don’t market your book, how are you going to reach potential readers?

You dedicated time, effort, and – at times – your sanity, to get your book out. Now it’s time to let the world know about it.

You’ll need a strategic book launch and marketing plan in place, which should include a number of techniques to gain readership and sell your book.

Book marketing strategies to consider

• Build a launch team before your official book release
• Social media marketing , such as on Pinterest and Instagram
• Effective book pricing that appeals to prospective readers
• Build an author website to create your own author platform
• Use book advertising on various book promo sites like BookBub
• Get book reviews to increase visibility, reach, and credibility

To dive deep into your book marketing , plan ahead, set a budget, do research, and reach out to your network!

8. Write another book!

Your first book is a learning experience, and once your first book is published, you’ll realize how many ideas you have for more books.

And that is where the real success comes in. In today’s digital author landscape, it’s important to keep writing books in order to build a career as an author.

Don’t make the mistake of thinking that one book will find instant success. While that does happen for some writers, it is the exception and NOT the rule.

So keep going! Write your next book. The more books you write, the smoother your process will become.

Are you ready to become an author?

Great books make the world go ‘round, which is why we’re all about helping writers learn how to become authors.

As you research how to become an author, one thing becomes clear: it’s a process that takes time, dedication, and some serious effort.

But nothing worth having comes easy.

Books are life-changing, not just for the book writer, but for the book readers all across the world that will learn from your story.

Becoming an author can be one of the most rewarding, and fulfilling accomplishments of your life. You deserve to celebrate it!

Ready To Learn How to Become An Author? This FREE eBook Will Walk You Step-By-Step Through The ENTIRE PROCESS

Faqs about how to become an author.

Here are answers to commonly asked questions about what an author is and how to become an author:

What is a writer?

A writer is someone who writes or expresses ideas or concepts through the written word. There are many people who write for a variety of reasons – whether it’s part of their occupation, or for creative expression.

Types of writers that aren’t necessarily authors:

• Technical writers
• Ghostwriters
• Copywriters
• Content writers
• Songwriters

Can anyone be a writer?

It depends on the type of writer, but yes, technically anyone can be a writer as long as they know how to write. However, specialized writers, such as technical writers and copywriters often require advanced experience and/or degrees in order to be qualified for a writing position. Of course, learning how to become an author is a different story, entirely.

What is an author?

Authors are people who write books, novels, short stories, poems, literary prose, and even screenplays.

What is an author, exactly? An author is someone who has written and published a complete literary work. The publishing is key. If you haven’t published your work, then you are a writer but not an author.

How do authors get paid?

Authors can be paid in a variety of ways, but most commonly authors are paid through book advancements and royalty fees.

How much do authors get paid?

The average author salary has a very wide range, and an author’s income depends on a number of criteria, such as the number of books published, the publishing method, the book genre and topic, and the success of the book.

As of writing, the current average author salary is between $35,000 to $135,000.

How do i get started as an author?

Really, you just need to start writing! Finish a manuscript, edit it, hire a book cover designer and a marketing team, and learn how to self-publish a book . It may seem like an overwhelming process at first, but there are self-publishing companies that can help you with every step along the way.

Join the Community

Join 100,000 other aspiring authors who receive weekly emails from us to help them reach their author dreams. Get the latest product updates, company news, and special offers delivered right to your inbox.

How to Become a Writer And Make a Living in 2024 (Complete Steps)

Want to know how to become a writer right now?

I know you can make a living from it.

How? Well, because I’ve been a writer for almost a decade!

If you’ve thought or read or seen how making a living with writing is a struggle or that people go through a feast and famine cycle constantly, know that it doesn’t have to be for you.

I’ve been getting paid to write for a decade now, and I still continue to get opportunities to write.

Whether you want to be an author, creative writer, or even a blogger, there are many ways you can become a professional writer and earn income.

But do you need to be a good writer?

I feel you don’t have to be the best writer to make it as a writer.

I know I’m not the best out there, but I can still get paid to write on big sites.

The thing to remember is that if you have engaging writing or writing that tells a story and connects with readers, then it’s possible to make a living as a writer.

Let’s go over if you can make money writing, then a rundown of exactly what you need to become a writer, the types of writing you can do, and learn the best writing tips.

Is Writing a Viable Career?

When I first started as an online writer, I knew another freelancer, and over the years, we connected many times.

Then one day, I learned that she wrote a fiction book .

I was shocked and amazed.

Over time, she transitioned from being a freelancer to being an author. She’s now a USA Today Bestselling Author!

She’s been writing for many years and fully transitioned out of freelancing.

So, is writing a viable career?

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics , writers and authors in 2022 made $73,150.

This is only the average, and many authors struggle to get this amount. But, that’s not to say that you can’t make a decent living as an author.

Shaunta Grimes was able to earn a part-time income as an author .

“I sold four books in six years and earned a bit less than $100,000. A solid part-time income.”

But, based on the type of writer you want to become, you can make more money than this and have it be more sustainable.

I’ll show you that in a little bit, but let’s go step-by-step on becoming a professional writer.

To help you out, I have a video on how to get paid as a writer. This is a freelance writing tutorial, but it can apply to becoming a writer. Make sure to check it out and subscribe to my channel.

How to Become a Successful Writer – Steps

• Discover your writing genre or niche
• Just start writing (& start a blog)
• Grow your brand as a writer
• Join a writing community
• Overcome fear and writers block
• Find paid writing opportunities
• Submit your writing

That’s all there is to it! But of course, this list can’t tell you all the little important things do along the way of your journey to becoming a writer.

So, take your time and read this article (and watch my Youtube video) to help you decide if writing is your passion, path and destiny.

1. Discover Your Writing Genre or Niche

My freelance friend is a YA fiction writer.

There are other freelancers that love to write romance novels or science-fiction writing.

But, if you want to get paid NOW and not wait years (writing your novel and trying to sell it to a publisher), you can start out as a writer for small businesses or brands.

In the video, I lay out different types of freelance writing you can do, but I stress to the new writer to try out three writing niches.

This might mean:

• Health and wellness

Find a niche or some genre topics that you know about, want to learn more about or is something you can leverage from your day job.

My freelance friend turned fiction author got paid to write about career writing mostly, but her author niche is YA fiction.

So, know that you don’t need to have similar niches as a freelancer if you want to be an author.

2. Start Writing (And Start a Blog)

Once you have a few writing niches you want to use for your writing, then it’s time to start writing!

I suggest you start an author blog or a blog that houses your writings.

Make sure to check out my post and video tutorial on how to start a blog for your writing .

Another way to start writing is to create writing samples in those topics so that you can start writing online for small businesses .

A cool thing you can do is marry your writing topics so that each writing sample is cohesive.

For example, in the above bullet list, I can create these writing samples:

• 17 Best Yoga Exercises for Toddlers
• How to Stop the Yelling Cycle With Your Stubborn Child
• 8 Reading Tips for Kids Who Hate Reading

These writing samples fall under the parenting topic, but you can marry these under the health topic too:

• 9 Vegan Recipes Your Baby Can Enjoy
• 20 Survival Tips For When Your Daughter Says She’s Ugly
• How to Use a Fitbit to Encourage Exercise at School

So, you can see, even if you pick varied writing niches, you can see if you can merge them or marry them together to create similar content.

3. Grow Your Brand as a Writer

Writing doesn’t have to be lonely or just for you. You need to send your writing out there and have it get read.

An easy way to do this is to get on social media.

Start a Twitter profile or Facebook fan page.

If you really want to dive into freelance writing, I would opt for a LinkedIn profile .

You can create one profile for your fiction writing and one profile for your freelance writing if you want.

This way, you can market yourself in two different ways to two different audiences.

4. Join a Writing Community

Note: this step isn’t mentioned in the video!

One of the best things you can do to being a professional writer is to join a writing community. There you can get an honest critique of your writing, people can review your writing, and share your writing.

This can boost your confidence when you know you can write, but not sure if others will like your writing .

The two I recommend are Medium and Wattpad . Medium is a wonderful platform filled with some of the best writing out there on all sorts of topics.

If you want to be a writer, then start a Medium profile .

What’s great about using Medium is that you can get paid to write with their partner program. This is what I use when I submit my stories to publications on Medium.

Whereas Medium is a place to market your brand and yourself as an author, Wattpad is a place to share your stories and read other people’s novels.

They have a free and paid section, and if you want to become a writer, this is a great writing community to join.

5. Overcome Fear and Writers Block

As a new writer, you might have a lot of trepidation over your writing quality and writing skill.

This is normal.

I don’t have a creative writing background or a degree in journalism. I learned how to write for small businesses through trial and error.

But, for many of us, we’ve always had a love of writing.

I wrote poems as a teenager, and it helped me cope with my mother’s death.

In University, I loved researching credible sources for my research papers and essays. But, I did have one person tell me I had poor writing, and I almost gave up as an online writer.

The fear of putting yourself out there is a real thing, and after that incident, I did have a very hard time getting out there and find writing opportunities.

What I suggest is to remain positive as a writer and know that there is someone out there that will be touched by your writing.

That’s why joining a writing community is so important in helping you overcome your fear of writing. Another thing that might plague you as a writer is writers block .

As a freelance writer, I do get bouts of writer’s block, and that means losing money.

I find that writer’s block hits me when I’m under stress, lack sleep, or there’s just too much going on in my personal life.

If you are writing your novel or a blog post for a writing opportunity, and suddenly you are stuck, try these methods to relieve writer’s block:

• Always outline your work, so you have a path to your writing
• Take a break and do something else creative (painting, reading, making soap even!)
• Listen to music
• Take care of yourself!

6. Find Paid Writing Opportunities

When you use Medium or Wattpad you can share your writing and get feedback.

But, wouldn’t it be neat to share your writing to more and more people and even get paid for that?

In my video, I talk about finding freelance writing work.

If you want to become a writer, you don’t have to do this step, but if you need extra income and a way to make money writing, then I suggest you pick up some paid writing opportunities along the way.

Some popular methods are:

• Use Job Boards – there are specific job boards for online writers to connect them with potential writing jobs
• Use LinkedIn – LinkedIn is like Facebook for businesses. You can connect with other businesses to land yourself a writing gig.
• Go Local – some of the best writing opportunities are in your backyard. Put your writing to work by helping those in your community.

There are many other methods of finding writing gigs , but these are the best.

7. Submit Your Writing

The last step to becoming a writer is submitting your work to publishers if it’s a novel or to potential companies if it’s client work.

For potential clients (i.e. writing job), they are focussed on more on the content marketing side of online business. This means the structure of your writing and if it’s engaging. These are skills that can be learned over time so no need to stress if you don’t feel you’re an experience writer yet!

If you find submitting your work to publishers difficult and hard to come by, you can also self-publish your work . As well, Medium and Wattpad are free places to publish your stories and get recognized as well.

Okay –

So I walked you through the steps on how to become a writer.

But, you might find that writing is a vague topic and that there are many different types of writers and different income levels .

I’ve touched on some like blogging and freelance writing, but let’s dive into the types of writing you can do (+ how much money you can make) to help you be a successful writer and make a living from it.

Types of Writing You Can Do

Since I already talked about how much you can make as an author or novelist, let’s get into other writing types that are profitable and sustainable.

1. Freelance Writer

Of course, I’m going to talk about freelance writing first! I’m a tad biased since I’ve been a freelance writer for over six years now.

I lucked into freelance writing when my twins were toddlers and never looked back. While I don’t share my income from my writing online, I do share that I average around $600-$800 a post since my type of freelance writing is blog writing .

What I found is that if you specialize in a certain type of writing, you can charge more. So, I can charge per blog post because I specialize in digital marketing writing that’s long-form .

Some types of freelance writers that pays a lot are:

• Technical writer – if you want to do some technical writing , you need to be able to take complex copy like a technical document and turn it into easy-to-read articles.
• Content writer – content writing and freelance writing can sort of be the same. As a content writer you may write more than blog posts but also social media posts, landing pages, feature pages or even transcribe podcasts and Youtube videos.
• Grant writer – with grant writing you are mostly writing proposals to request funding from organizations like governments, corporations, or foundations.

If you want to learn that type of writing and SEO writing (this is writing to help rank in Google), then check out my Freelance Blogging in a Weekend course !

2. Ghostwriter

Ghostwriting is writing that isn’t attributed to you. Any writing you do is attributed to someone else.

Many business people hire ghostwriters to write their books as well as ghostwriters to write music for rappers and singers.

Ghostwriting is highly profitable since you can charge more for your writing (since you can’t market your writing).

According to Ziprecruiter , Ghostwriters average around $51,456 per year.

To help you start ghostwriting, make sure to check out my guide to becoming a ghostwriter .

Blogging is a popular choice for many professionals –

Doctors blog, veterinarians blog, chefs blog and even authors blog.

Starting a blog is a great way to connect with your readers and grow your own community. It can also help you with updating your audience with any book tours, book signings or book readings in your city.

You can also make money blogging with affiliate marketing, sponsored content and creating your own products like books!

Of course, you can also use your blog as a marketing strategy to help you with landing writing jobs.

4. Magazine Writer

Do you want your name in print?

If writing your novel is taking longer than you thought, why not try being a magazine writer? Many magazines seek out writers. Here’s a list of magazines that actually pay writers !

Rates for magazine writing is more than blog writing or other forms of writing. It’s not uncommon to get paid $1 a word.

5. Copywriter

Copywriting is the idea of using your words to help sell an idea.

Copywriters use psychology, emotions and storytelling to help them craft their copy.

Copywriting is used in print and online. From email campaigns to a brochure for microchipping pets to creating a landing page to offer a free chapter of your latest book, copywriting is used.

If you want to become a writer, you can learn how to become a copywriter by blogging and getting paid to write.

Over the years, I’ve picked up a few copywriting skills and use them in my sales page copy.

To learn more about copywriting, visit Copyhackers .

5. Novella Author

If you want to be a fiction author, you can become a novella writer. Novellas are shorter than a full-length novel but longer than a standard short story!

This is a great way for creative writers to find their passion if writing a full-length novel seems challenging.

Generally, they are around 60-120 pages long.

For more information, check out this guide to writing a novella .

6. Children’s Author

If you’re asking, “I want to become a writer, where do I start?”

Well, why not write a children’s book ?

I know freelancers that have gone down this route of book writing, and it’s awesome!

You can call yourself a fiction writer too!

If being a children’s author is something you’re interested in, this route can be profitable for you.

On average children authors can earn $58,567, according to Ziprecruiter. Don’t think you can make this with your first children’s book.

This is for a series of books, and the more you market your brand and get out there, the more popular your book series will become.

7. Historical Author

If you’re an aspiring writer who enjoys watching history documentaries or just have a knack for historical dates, then you can write about history too!

There are many sub-niches if you want to be a historical writer:

• historical fiction
• academic history
• historical criticism
• historical fantasy
• historical romance

This type of nonfiction writing is popular on Medium, a place for nonfiction writers. There are even historical publications you can write for. For example,

Early American Life will pay up to $500 for features .

8. Song Writer

If music and poems are your thing, then why not try your hand at songwriting?

I feel being this type of writer will be the hardest since the money is being a writer to famous singers, but you never know unless you try, right?

Even if it’s hard work, it’s still worth it if this is what you want.

Make sure to get a good understanding of music theory, so you know the structure of songs and what’s needed to make a bop or hit song.

As well, you need to be able to sing to market your songwriting abilities! Check locally for open calls and even start a YouTube channel to grow your brand!

For more information, check out this guide on how to become a songwriter .

There are many other types of writers you want to be on this career path depending on your genre or writing niche, so make sure to explore those options too!

But the thing to remember is that once you say you’re a writer, you will have professional writing under your belt. And you might be thinking, do I need to take a writing program to become a writer? The answer? No.

I never took a writing program but I did take a creative writing class in college and always enjoyed writing in high school so that was my way of breaking into online writing.

My Best Writing Tips to Help You Become a Better Writer

Here are my best writing tips so that you are more successful with your writing craft and turn this into a legit writing career!

1. Write Every Day

If you truly want to be a writer, you have to write every day.

There is no shortcuts to the written word for sure.

By writing every day, you will gain some good writing habits.

Whether it’s a diary entry, a blog post, an email or your to-do list, find opportunities to write. Of course, what you write is important. If all you do are make lists, you won’t hack it as a writer.

You have to flex your writing muscle and write what you want to get paid for – business writing, horror fiction, chicklit etc.

2. Don’t Worry About Being Perfect

Work on just “dumping” your writing onto paper or online.

It’s not going to be pretty or coherent, but you are exercising your writing muscle and helping you get away from the fear of writing.

Being the grammar police is also something you don’t want to do with your own writing!

3. Work on Your Storytelling

Telling stories is so important as a writer.

For freelance writers like myself, I infuse my stories when I write as a way to connect with my readers.

Copywriters also heavily rely on emotional storytelling to help them sell.

As an author, you can think of that as well when you write in your characters. You can create a strong bond with your characters so that your readers crave more from you!

4. Work the Hardest on Your Openings

Your introduction or opening to your book is crucial.

It is what will convince someone to keep on reading. Stephen King can spend weeks and even months on his opening sentences .

So if you want to become a better writer, focus your writing on your openings.

Become a Successful Writer Today!

So, how do you become a writer?

I hope this complete step-by-step guide was helpful!

Just remember that there is someone out there that will benefit from your words!

And if you are interested in freelance writing, then I urge you to sign up for my free get paid to write course !

Over to you – have you published any books or want to?

Share in the comments your journey to becoming a writer!

Don’t forget to pin me!

Share this post with your friends!

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How to Become a Freelance Writer: Step-by-Step Guide

Written by MasterClass

Last updated: Aug 24, 2022 • 3 min read

A freelance writer works for one or several clients as a contractor instead of a full-time employee. From pitching to collaborating to self-promoting, learn how to become a freelance writer.

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Fiction Writer Education Requirements

The educational requirements for a fiction writer typically include a high school diploma, but a bachelor's degree in English, history, writing, journalism, or psychology is preferred. According to Dr. Wilma Davidson , Instructor at the University of South Florida, "All businesses need good writers. Technology makes it easy for an excellent writer to write productively from anywhere." This suggests that while a degree is important, location may not be a significant factor in finding work opportunities for fiction writers.

What education do you need to become a fiction writer?

What degree do you need to be a fiction writer.

The most common degree for fiction writers is bachelor's degree, with 72% of fiction writers earning that degree. The second and third most common degree levels are master's degree degree at 12% and master's degree degree at 7%.

• Bachelor's , 72%
• Master's , 12%
• Associate , 7%
• Doctorate , 5%
• Other Degrees , 4%

What should I major in to become a fiction writer?

According to Joanne Diaz Ph.D. , Chair and Professor at Illinois Wesleyan University's Department of English, English majors excel in traditional forms of analytical and argumentative writing, as well as in creating content for podcasts, videos, and other web platforms. Therefore, the best college majors for a fiction writer are English, Journalism, and Communication.

• English , 26%
• History , 9%
• Writing , 9%
• Journalism , 6%
• Other Majors , 50%

Most common colleges for fiction writers

Fiction writers often get their degrees at University of California, Santa Barbara, Montclair State University, and University of Southern California. Here are the most common colleges for fiction writers in the US based on their resumes.

Best majors for fiction writers

Best colleges for fiction writers

The top colleges for fiction writers, such as Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Harvard University, and Cornell University, offer valuable opportunities. These institutions stand out due to their competitive admissions, high retention rates, and strong graduate earnings. Moreover, a significant portion of their graduates secure jobs in the field, showcasing the schools' effectiveness in preparing students for fiction writing careers.

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA • Private

In-State Tuition

2. Harvard University

3. Cornell University

Ithaca, NY • Private

4. Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH • Private

5. University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor, MI • Private

6. Northwestern University

Evanston, IL • Private

7. Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY • Private

8. University of Notre Dame

Notre Dame, IN • Private

9. Brown University

Providence, RI • Private

10. University of California, Berkeley

Berkeley, CA • Private

20 best online courses for fiction writers

1. Teaching Reluctant Writers

All educators will encounter students who struggle with writing. This course first focuses on the reasons student writers may be reluctant and then provides learners with a variety of strategies and practices to help reluctant writers develop a greater comfort and confidence with writing. Learners will examine classroom relationships, mentoring, scaffolding, conferencing, low-risk writing and mini-lessons, all tools and techniques that can be brought right into the classroom to help struggling...

2. Create a Syllabus using Libre Writer

In this project, you will learn how to create a visually appealing course syllabus in Libre Writer. The key components of a course syllabus will be discussed. While adding these components to your document, you will use various features in Writer. You will apply styles, insert a bulleted list and a table to organize information, insert an image, and modify a table and image. Included Universal design formatting tips will describe options to help make your document accessible to all learners...

3. Fiction for Young Writers (Writing Mastery)

A fun, interactive workshop to help young writers unlock their creativity, improve their craft, and write better stories...

4. Writing Science Fiction and Fantasy

Turn your idea into a published novel or screenplay in one of today's hottest genres...

5. Writing Fiction That Sings: Write Novels With Great Voice

Writing novels, blogs, or nonfiction books? Learn editing techniques in this writing course and up your writing skills...

6. Reverse Engineer Riveting Fiction & Write Best Selling Books

You will be writing page turning fiction that your readers will love when you plot, outline and write the right way...

7. The Foundations of Fiction (Writing Mastery)

Become a creative writing master and write killer novels, memoirs, or short stories...

8. COMPLETE Creative Writing - All Genres - THE FULL COURSE!

Learn to write engaging Fiction, Poetry, Drama, & Creative Non-Fiction and become the successful writer you want to be...

9. Fiction Writing: A Complete Novel Outline Chapter by Chapter

A Bestselling Course - Learn this Hollywood secret and complete a comprehensive novel outline in as little as 2 weeks!...

10. Writing That Moves: Write Novels That Keep Pages Turning

Write novels with compelling plots. This writing course, on fiction writing, shows how to plot books that hook readers...

11. Helping Writers to Write and Keep Writing

This limiting factor with most writers is their mind. This course will help get your state of mind into Success Mode...

12. Reverse Engineer Riveting Fiction 2: The Next Level

Creating Books with the X Factor that Ordinary Authors Fail to Achieve by applying what I will teach you in this course...

13. Conquering Writer's Block (Writing Mastery)

Proven strategies and tools to overcome writer's block, renew your motivation, and write novels with confidence...

14. Write A Book - Share Your Story

Write, Self Publish and Market your Non-Fiction Book, Launch on Amazon and Learn How to Become a Best Seller on Kindle...

15. Your Path To Writing a Page-Turner

The indispensable guide to creating a novel that leaves your readers saying, I couldn't put it down!...

16. Writing: Book Writing: Creative Writing Skills: Punctuation

Writing: Creative writing skills: Novel/non-fiction book writing: Punctuation: Writing/outlining: Fantasy world building...

17. Creative Writing For Beginners - Writing Creative Prose

Creative Writing For Beginners : Beginners Creative Writing Tips : Creative Writing : Writing Creative Prose - Beginners...

18. How to Write a Nonfiction Book That Actually Sells

The Step-by-Step System for Writing Non-fiction Books in 30 Days from #1 Bestselling Author Tom Corson-Knowles...

19. Become a Freelance Content Writer - Get Paid to Write Online

Learn everything you need to know about becoming a freelance writer - Work from home!...

20. Writing for Children

Everything you need to create a bestselling Picture Book, Storybook, Middle Reader or Young Adult Novel!...

Top 10 most affordable universities for fiction writers

The most affordable schools for fiction writers are USF Sarasota-Manatee, hunter college of the city university of new york, and brooklyn college of the city university of new york.

If the best universities for fiction writers are out of your price range, check out these affordable schools. After factoring in in-state tuition and fees, the average cost of attendance, admissions rate, average net price, and mean earnings after six years, we found that these are the most affordable schools for fiction writers.

1. USF Sarasota-Manatee

Sarasota, FL • Private

Cost of Attendance

2. Hunter College of the City University of New York

3. Brooklyn College of the City University of New York

Brooklyn, NY • Private

4. University of Florida

Gainesville, FL • Private

5. Brigham Young University

Provo, UT • Private

6. California State University - Long Beach

Long Beach, CA • Private

7. Florida International University

Miami, FL • Private

8. Queens College of the City University of New York

Queens, NY • Private

9. Florida State University

Tallahassee, FL • Private

10. Baruch College of the City University of New York

Top 10 hardest universities to get into for fiction writers.

The hardest universities for fiction writers to get into are Northwestern University, Vanderbilt University, and Johns Hopkins University.

Some great schools for fiction writers are hard to get into, but they also set your career up for greater success. The list below shows the most challenging universities to get into for fiction writers based on an institution's admissions rates, average SAT scores accepted, median ACT scores accepted, and mean earnings of students six years after admission.

1. Northwestern University

Admissions Rate

SAT Average

2. Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN • Private

3. Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD • Private

4. Hamilton College

Clinton, NY • Private

5. Harvard University

6. University of Rochester

Rochester, NY • Private

7. Washington University in St Louis

Saint Louis, MO • Private

8. Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA • Private

9. Northeastern University

Boston, MA • Private

10. Boston University

Top 10 easy-to-apply-to universities for fiction writers.

The easiest schools for fiction writers to get into are Notre Dame de Namur University, mount saint mary's university, and la roche college.

Some schools are much easier to get into. If you want to start your career as a fiction writer without much hassle, check out the list of schools where you will be accepted in no time. We compiled admissions rates, average SAT scores, average ACT scores, and average salary of students six years after graduation to uncover which were the easiest schools to get into for fiction writers.

1. Notre Dame de Namur University

Belmont, CA • Private

2. Mount Saint Mary's University

Los Angeles, CA • Private

3. La Roche College

4. Saint Joseph's College of Maine

Standish, ME • Private

5. Kean University

Union, NJ • Private

6. Cardinal Stritch University

Milwaukee, WI • Private

7. Our Lady of the Lake University

San Antonio, TX • Private

8. Albertus Magnus College

New Haven, CT • Private

9. Rochester University

Rochester Hills, MI • Private

10. Holy Names University

Oakland, CA • Private

Average fiction writer salary by education level

According to our data, fiction writers with a Doctorate degree earn the highest average salary, at $87,036 annually. Fiction writers with a Master's degree earn an average annual salary of $82,789.

Fiction Writer Education FAQs

What is the best college for fiction writers, search for fiction writer jobs.

Updated April 5, 2024

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

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Top Writing Branches You Can Explore After Graduation

For many college students, graduation brings a mixture of exhilaration and uncertainty. One of the largest demanding situations is figuring out which career route to pursue. 

If you’ve got a passion for writing, you’re in success—there are numerous writing careers you could discover after graduation that can help you harness your creativity, explicit your mind, or even make a meaningful effect. 

Writing Branches to Explore After Your Graduation

Let’s take a closer look at a number of the top writing branches that you can dive into after completing your research.

Journalism is one of the maximum well-known writing professions. As a journalist, you’ll study, look into, and file on information memories, current occasions, and numerous issues that remember to the general public. Whether running for print, online media, or broadcast outlets, journalism is ready to keep human beings informed and maintain institutions responsible.

Types of Journalism

Journalism comes in unique paperwork, consisting of:

• Print Journalism: Newspapers, magazines, and journals.
• Broadcast Journalism: TV, radio, and virtual news channels.
• Photojournalism: Visual storytelling through pictures.
• Online Journalism: Digital news structures, blogs, and social media reporting.

Skills Needed

Strong investigative skills, the capability to write clear and compelling testimonies underneath tight time limits, and a dedication to accuracy are essential in this field. As a journalist, you’ll additionally want amazing interviewing capabilities and the capability to deal with complaints and paintings below strain.

Challenges and Opportunities

While journalism can be competitive, it gives an exciting and enjoyable career direction for people who enjoy storytelling and feature a nose for information. In today’s digital global, the demand for online newshounds is developing, developing new opportunities for recent graduates. For better clarification in the field of journalism, you can also opt for some viable online study course and uphold you career. 

Copywriting

Copywriting entails developing persuasive content material designed to inspire readers to do so, whether it is buying a product, subscribing to a provider, or engaging with a brand. Copywriters craft commercials, product descriptions, e-mail campaigns, and other marketing materials for agencies.

Where Can You Work?

You can locate copywriting roles at marketing organizations, in-house advertising departments, or as a freelancer. Brands throughout each enterprise—from style to technology—rely on copywriters to connect with their audiences and increase income.

Key Responsibilities

Copywriters ought to recognize their audience, expand strong calls to movement, and create clean and impactful messages. This position often entails running closely with image designers, entrepreneurs, and income groups to align content with a logo’s voice and dreams.

To be triumphant as a copywriter, you need creativity, an aptitude for writing, and a strong understanding of advertising ideas. The capacity to write down concisely and persuasively is critical, as is adaptability to one-of-a-kind writing styles.

Opportunities for Growth

With the upward thrust of virtual advertising, copywriting is extra vital than ever. Many companies look for talented copywriters to manage their online presence, from social media posts to website content material. It’s a moneymaking and profitable discipline for writers who experience quick-paced surroundings and creative challenges.

Content Writing

Content writing focuses on developing precious, informative, and attractive articles, blogs, and net pages that attract and preserve a target market. Content writers are responsible for producing long-shape content that educates readers on an extensive range of subjects, from non-public finance to tour and fitness.

Why It’s Popular

Content writing has grown in popularity because of the rise of digital media. Websites, blogs, and businesses want fresh, first-rate content to rank properly in search engines like Google and hook up with their audiences. Content writing often goes hand-in-hand with search engine marketing (Search Engine Optimization), as writers use unique keywords and strategies to enhance a website’s visibility.

Skills Required

Strong study skills, extraordinary grammar, and the capability to adapt your tone to match different audiences are critical for content writers. Understanding search engine marketing concepts also can give you a part in this competitive field.

Many content material writing positions are freelance, that can provide flexibility and a danger to work from anywhere. However, it may be competitive, and constructing a portfolio is important. Working for digital advertising agencies or content material turbines may be a great way to gain experience before moving directly to higher-paying initiatives.

Technical Writing

Technical writing involves growing clean, user-pleasant manuals, guides, reviews, and different documents that specify complex topics or methods. These files are normally geared toward specialists or customers who want to understand how to use a product, system, or carrier.

Where You Can Work

Technical writers frequently paint in industries like technology, engineering, healthcare, and production. They may write software program documentation, product manuals, medical papers, or white papers.

This role calls for the ability to translate complex ideas into simple, understandable language. Strong analytical abilities, interest in detail, and the capability to work with challenge be counted professionals (SMEs) are vital. Technical writers also want remarkable organizational abilities, as they often paint on multiple projects simultaneously.

Why It’s a Great Career Path

Technical writing is in high call for, especially as generation maintains to strengthen. If you experience each writing and have knowledge technical principles, this discipline gives excellent possibilities for growth and specialization. Salaries are regularly higher in technical writing as compared to other writing branches, especially in industries like IT and engineering.

Ghostwriting

Ghostwriters create content material for others, allowing the credited author to take full ownership. Ghostwriters are frequently hired to write books, articles, speeches, or weblog posts on behalf of experts, celebrities, or enterprise leaders.

Challenges and Benefits

The essential challenge of ghostwriting is that you won’t receive public popularity for your paintings. However, ghostwriting can be financially profitable, specifically when writing for high-profile clients. It also allows you to explore extraordinary voices and styles, making it a extremely good manner to refine your writing capabilities.

To prevail as a ghostwriter, you want to be adaptable and able to mimic the voice and tone of your consumer. Strong study talents, discretion, and the ability to fulfil tight closing dates also are crucial.

Growth Opportunities

Ghostwriting is a versatile career that permits freelance work, which may be best for the ones seeking out freedom and range in their projects. Building a reputation via word-of-mouth referrals allows you to land lengthy-time period contracts with prestigious clients.

UX (User Experience) writing makes a specialty of crafting the words utilized in digital merchandise, like apps, websites, and software programs. UX writers create content material that publications customers via a continuing virtual enjoy, including button labels, errors messages, and onboarding commands.

Why It’s in Demand

With the growth of virtual merchandise, UX writing is becoming increasingly more important. The purpose is to make sure that users can navigate products without difficulty and intuitively, making the general experience extra enjoyable.

Strong communique skills, empathy, and deep expertise of consumer behaviour are essential for UX writers. Collaboration is also key, as UX writers often work intently with designers, product managers, and developers.

As extra corporations prioritize user revel, the demand for skilled UX writers is growing. This department of writing offers possibilities in tech agencies, startups, and virtual product design businesses, and regularly comes with appealing salaries.

Grant Writing

Grant writing involves crafting proposals to steady funding for non-profits, instructional establishments, or studies tasks. Grant writers need to gift compelling arguments as to why their company merits monetary support from governments, foundations, or groups.

This role calls for tremendous research, cooperation, and persuasive writing abilities. You have to be capable of giving an explanation for complicated standards honestly and understand the funder’s desires and priorities.

Grant writing can be hard because of the enormously aggressive nature of securing investment. However, for those captivated with assisting reasons like training, healthcare, and social justice, furnish writing is a profitable profession that can make a actual effect.

The writing enterprise gives numerous career paths, every with its own particular possibilities and challenges. As you transition from student lifestyles to your profession, locating the proper student accommodation can make the manner smoother, imparting you a cushty area to awareness of your goals.

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Chicago school board election 2024: Here are the candidates running in District 5

Sign up for Chalkbeat Chicago’s free daily newsletter to keep up with the latest education news.

Voters on Chicago’s West Side will see two candidate names on their ballots for the city’s first elected school board race, but just one is actually running for the seat.

And two other people are running as write-in candidates.

Jitu Brown, a longtime Chicago resident and activist with a son in Chicago Public Schools, is the only candidate on the ballot who is running for the seat in District 5 , which stretches from the West Loop to Austin.

Votes will not be counted for the other name on the ballot – Michillia Blaise, also a Chicago resident with kids in CPS. She dropped out of the race earlier this month and has not responded to Chalkbeat’s requests for comment on why she dropped out. Max Bever, spokesperson for the Board of Elections said it is too late for the Chicago Board of Elections to remove her name without delaying the printing of ballots by the deadline for early voting.

The two candidates who have filed to run as write-in candidates are Jousef Shkoukani, an attorney who lives in the West Loop, and Kernetha Jones, who owns a home in the Austin neighborhood. Both originally filed paperwork to appear on the ballot but were kicked off, as were several other candidates, as part of the process in which registered voters can file challenges that question the signatures and paperwork candidates must collect in order to run.

The Board of Elections removed Shkoukani’s ballot after it agreed with a challenger who said Shkoukani did not collect enough valid signatures on his petitions, which must include at least 1,000 signatures from registered voters in a candidate’s district. Jones was kicked off after the board agreed with a complaint filed against her, which claimed that she hadn’t filed certain required paperwork on time.

Voters will need to write in either Shkoukani’s or Jones’ name in order to cast votes for them.

The neighborhoods of District 5 have vastly different profiles and needs. The Near West Side, for example, has a median household income of over $106,000, per data from the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning. In the Austin neighborhood, the median income is just over $40,000.

Several neighborhoods are majority Black, low-income areas, where schools have seen declining enrollment and therefore, less funding, and where many district-led school closures occurred under mayors Rahm Emanuel and Richard M. Daley.

The district has a total 105 schools, the most of any school board district. A quarter of those schools are charters, which are publicly funded but privately managed, and must receive periodic approval from the Board of Education to keep operating. Eleven are magnet schools, which draw students from beyond their neighborhoods through a lottery system. Nine are alternative schools, which enroll students at risk of dropping out.

Two of the district’s schools are rated “Exemplary” by the state, meaning they’re in the top 10% for academic performance; 11 have the lowest rating and have been deemed as in need of additional support.

The schools look different from the district as a whole – but not by too much. About 57% of District 5 residents are Black, 19% are white, nearly another 19% are Hispanic, and 3.4% are Asian American.

In District 5’s public schools, as a whole, 62% of students are Black, 5% white, almost 28% Hispanic, and nearly 3% Asian American.

District-run schools in this area tend to be underenrolled, per the district’s standards. CPS has evaluated 66 of the district’s schools for how full they are. Of those, 57 are considered underutilized – meaning they enroll less than 70% of their capacity. Seven are considered “efficient,” and two are overcrowded.

On average, schools in District 5 are 44% full, according to the most recent district data.

Who is Jitu Brown?

Brown, who grew up on the South Side, is a longtime community organizer who has advocated against school closures and a range of other education issues. He was one of a dozen people who went on a hunger strike to push CPS to reopen Dyett High School in Bronzeville.

Brown grew up in the Rosemoor neighborhood and graduated from Kenwood Academy High School. He and his wife bought a home in the Austin neighborhood in 2009 and have lived there since, he said. He has a son who attends Kenwood.

Starting in the 1990s, Brown said he helped run youth leadership programs at schools on the South and West Side and was also a community schools coordinator when the model, which provides wraparound support for kids and families, was first being launched. He volunteered for and eventually oversaw the Kenwood Oakland Community Organization, a progressive advocacy group interested in a range of issues, including education.

Brown is now the national director of the Journey for Justice Alliance, a progressive network of organizations that advocate for improving schools through more “community-driven” approaches, such as the community school model, that reject “privatization.”

Brown, who also advocated for an elected school board, said he decided to run when Mayor Brandon Johnson, whom Brown considers a friend, said he wanted to greatly expand the Sustainable Community Schools model.

At a recent public event during the Democratic National Convention, the mayor said Brown is going to “be elected for the first time ever in the history of Chicago to a school board that is governed by the people.” Brown said he didn’t consider those remarks as an endorsement but hopes to get the mayor’s backing. At the same time, Brown said he’s not interested in “being an insider” or aiming for a higher office.

“I’m not trying to get into another position from doing this,” Brown said. “I don’t know what the future holds, but what I want is to transform Chicago.”

Brown said his top issues include expanding the Sustainable Community Schools model, advocating for more funding from the state and federal governments, and increasing the number of Black teachers at CPS.

Brown advocated against school closures and the expansion of charters under former mayors Emanuel and Daley. He said that he does not support more charter openings in Chicago, but he also said he doesn’t support “uniformly” closing them because that can be “traumatic” for school communities.

Asked how he would represent charters in his district, given that so many in District 5 are charters, he said he would seek to hold them accountable.

“I think that if charter schools are serving neighborhood children, if they are not pushing children out, they’re not using a selective enrollment scheme, they have a friend in me,” Brown said.

Brown has been endorsed by the Chicago Teachers Union, which shares some of Brown’s top priorities.

As of mid-September, Brown had raised $21,500, according to campaign finance reports filed with the state’s Board of Elections. Of that, most came as in-kind support to pay for field staff – including about $8,000 from the Chicago Teachers Union political fund, more than $6,500 from People United for Action, $4,000 from Our Schools Action, and $1,000 from state Sen. Lakesia Collins.

Read Brown’s full questionnaire responses.

Who is Jousef Shkoukani?

Shkoukani, who is running as a write-in candidate, is an attorney who grew up in Michigan. He said he moved to Chicago in 2021 after graduating from law school.

Shkoukani said he and his wife, who is from Chicago, are “building their roots” in the city and plan to have kids, who they would send to the “best available schools,” which right now mean Skinner West, his neighborhood elementary school. However, if asked to choose today, he would be “less inclined” to send his children to the neighborhood high school – Wells – because of its low proficiency rates on reading and math, he said, adding that improving neighborhood schools is one of his goals.

“I think it has all of the potentials of any other school here in Chicago,” Shkoukani said. “I just think that the historic way that we’ve gone about funding it and providing it with resources has not been on the level of the school’s actual need and so because of that, you have those results.”

Shkoukani said he decided to run for school board because, during law school, he became interested in undoing inequality in public schools. He began thinking more deeply about the subject after reading “The Color of Law” by Richard Rothstein, which explores government policies that helped to cement segregation.

In 2020, Shkoukani founded a nonprofit organization called Unified Under Hope, which during the pandemic aimed to provide resources to hospitals. It later morphed into providing tutoring and mentoring to students in “underfunded” school districts in Michigan and still operates today, he said.

If elected, Shkoukani said his other big goals include ensuring all schools are funded equitably. He said the district should be thinking about how to raise alternative sources of revenue and should also ensure that it is spending money wisely, such as by scrutinizing the contractors it hires.

He said he also wants to ensure that students with the highest needs, such as those with disabilities and those learning English as a new language, are receiving the extra support they need.

Read Shkoukani’s full questionnaire responses .

Who is Kernetha Jones?

Jones is running as a write-in candidate.

Jones owns a home in the Austin neighborhood and was raised on the city’s West Side, graduating from Farragut High School, she said. Asked for her current occupation, Jones said she’s a “street minister” and provides advice and prayers to people in her community.

She said she taught as a substitute teacher at CPS district schools, as well as charters, and also taught students with disabilities. She left teaching in the mid-1980s after she and her husband began having their five children, all of whom attended Chicago Public Schools, she said.

Jones told Chalkbeat she didn’t want to run for office at first, but decided to after encouragement from a friend. She also described it as a religious calling, saying God “told me to go and get the children.”

In an interview with Chalkbeat, Jones spoke at length about “parental rights being stripped.” She also often used anti-trans and anti-LGBT language in discussing sex education and gender identities.

Jones claimed schools are “grooming” and “transgendering” students by teaching them “sexually explicit pornography,” but did not immediately share evidence of such claims. She also alleged without proof that schools are showing students how to engage in graphic sex acts.

There is no evidence that the CPS curriculum covers anything Jones cited. The district does offer health and sex education, which is not required by state law. But according to lesson plans posted online , the lessons appear grade appropriate, with students in pre-K through 5 learning about different family structures, gender identity, correct names for body parts, understanding the concept of personal space, and what it means to be inappropriately touched and to report such instances to a trusted adult, and eventually puberty and consent.

In middle and high school, as part of the sex ed curriculum, students are taught about safe sex, sexually transmitted diseases, abstinence, consent, how to identify and report harassment and abuse, what options a student has if they become pregnant, and more about sexual and gender identities.

Schools must provide at least three forms of notification to parents that sex ed instruction will be happening, according to CPS. State law allows parents and guardians to opt their children out of these lessons, CPS says on its website.

Asked how she expects to represent students who are transgender or of different sexual identities, Jones said she’s not against any students or adults who don’t identify as heterosexual, but “I’m against … grooming them in school without the parents’ knowledge. I’m against you changing the children’s names without the parents permission.”

District policy says schools should not share information about a student’s gender identity and expression with others without the student’s consent “or unless authorized by the Law Department.” Students have the right to be addressed by the names and pronouns they wish at school, according to CPS policy.

Another of Jones’ top issues is to hire more Black teachers, particularly at schools with many Black students, so those students can be taught by someone who shares their background. Just over 20% of CPS teachers are Black, while roughly 36% of students are Black.

In other topics, Jones has also criticized the loss of cursive handwriting and reading instruction that does not rely on phonics – an argument that has gained strong traction in recent years and spurred changes to education laws across political party lines.

Jones did not submit a questionnaire.

Reema Amin is a reporter covering Chicago Public Schools. Contact Reema at [email protected] .

This story was published in partnership with Block Club Chicago.

Some parents questioned the district’s timeline and community engagement efforts.

Chicagoans will elect school board members for the first time on Nov. 5. Here’s a guide to who is running in each district.

The Chicago neighborhoods that Kate Doyle, Ebony DeBerry, Maggie Cullerton Hooper, or Bruce Leon will represent include parts of West Ridge, Edgewater, Rogers Park, Andersonville, Lincoln Square, Albany Park, North Park, and Uptown.

Kimberly Brown, Andrew A. Davis, Thomas Day, Carmen Gioiosa, Ellen Rosenfeld, and Karen Zaccor come from different backgrounds, ranging from teaching and community organizing to marketing and the military.

Chicago School Board District 5 stretches from the West Loop to Austin. There is one candidate on the ballot — Aaron ‘Jitu’ Brown — and two people running as write-ins: Jousef Shkoukani and Kernetha Jones.

District 6 has three candidates on the ballot and one write-in candidate running for a seat in Chicago’s first school board race. Here’s what you should know.

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NCERT Class 3 Textbook Sparks Controversy: Allegations Of 'Love Jihad'—Here’s What The Chapter Contains

A controversy over the ncert class 3 textbook has sparked allegations of 'love jihad' for featuring a hindu girl writing a letter to a muslim boy..

A controversy has erupted over a lesson titled "Chitthi Aayi Hai" in the NCERT Class 3 environmental studies textbook Aas-Paas . Dr. Raghav Pathak, a resident of Khajuraho, has lodged a complaint, alleging that the lesson promotes "love jihad." The controversy has now drawn the attention of Bageshwar Dham’s Peethadhishwar, Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, who has also expressed his concerns.

Shastri questioned the intent behind the lesson, asking, “Why didn’t Reena write the letter to someone named Akash, Avinash, or Adarsh? Why did she specifically write to a person from a particular community?” He further claimed that inappropriate ideas are being planted in the minds of young children. Shastri has demanded the immediate withdrawal of the textbook.

According to Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, such content in the textbook is intended to instill harmful thoughts in innocent children from an early age. There might be an agenda behind including such material in the textbook. He insisted that the lesson should be removed immediately.

Shastri also expressed concerns about what he referred to as the growing influence of "anti-religious forces," stating that the sentiments of 100 crore Hindus were being hurt. He raised questions about the language used in the letter format, which, in his view, has raised several important issues. “Why should a Hindu girl studying in Class 3 be writing a letter to a Muslim boy?” he asked, calling for strict legal action against those responsible for fostering such ideas in young children.

In his remarks, Shastri emphasised that the responsibility for tackling such "conspiracies" cannot rest with any single individual. He urged all Hindus across the country to raise their voices collectively against these forces and put an end to such agendas.

What’s in the Textbook?

Chapter 17 of the Class 3 environmental studies textbook is titled "Chitthi Aayi Hai". In this chapter, a girl named Reena invites her friend Ahmed to visit Agartala during the holidays. She writes him a letter, which she signs off with, "Yours, Reena." This particular detail has raised concerns for Dr. Raghav Pathak, who has accused the lesson of promoting 'love jihad.' 

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GCSE English Language: Write an account of a time you were unwilling to do something Sample Answer

Subject: English

Age range: 14-16

Resource type: Other

Last updated

25 September 2024

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This sample answer is a beautifully crafted narrative recounting a personal experience of reluctance and how unexpected discoveries can arise from initially unwanted tasks. The story revolves around helping a relative clean out an old attic, showcasing the protagonist’s journey from unwillingness to a newfound appreciation for family history. The engaging narrative style, combined with vivid descriptions and emotional depth, makes this piece both relatable and insightful for students.

Question Overview: The question asks students to write an account of a time when they were unwilling to do something. This type of prompt is common in GCSE English Language exams, testing the student’s ability to convey personal experiences in a detailed and engaging manner. The sample answer provides a clear structure, demonstrating how to effectively introduce, develop and conclude a narrative while maintaining a consistent tone and voice.

Language Techniques Utilized:

• Vivid Imagery: The use of detailed descriptions such as “dust motes danced in the slivers of light” and “the familiar smell of lavender and old books” paints a vivid picture, helping the reader visualize the setting and atmosphere.
• Similes and Metaphors: Phrases like “a chaotic museum of the past” and “reluctance weighing heavily on my shoulders” add depth and creativity to the writing, enhancing the reader’s engagement.
• Personification: Describing reluctance as “a barrier we put up in the face of the unknown” personifies abstract emotions, making them more relatable and tangible.
• Emotive Language: Words like “treasured,” “nostalgia,” and “privileged” evoke emotions, helping the reader connect with the narrator’s experience on a personal level.
• Narrative Voice: The first-person perspective provides an intimate view of the narrator’s thoughts and feelings, creating a strong personal connection with the audience.
• Symbolism: The attic and its contents symbolize the forgotten or neglected aspects of life, which are rediscovered through unexpected effort, adding a layer of meaning to the narrative.

Why This Digital File Is Essential for Exam Preparation: This digital file is an invaluable resource for students preparing for their GCSE English Language exams. It provides a high-quality, exemplar response that demonstrates how to tackle similar narrative prompts effectively. By studying this sample, students can observe the use of language techniques, narrative structure and storytelling elements that elevate writing to an A* standard. With clear annotations and explanations of each language technique used, this file serves as a guide to mastering imaginative writing. It’s not just a sample answer; it’s a tool for understanding the art of storytelling in a way that resonates with examiners.

CONTAINS: 12 PAGES

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National Argumentative Essay Writing Competition for Young Scholars

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Topic: Simultaneous Elections in India: One Nation, One Election

The Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR) is committed to promoting social science research in the country. The research schemes and initiatives of the ICSSR have played a key role in enlarging the country’s social science research base.

The National Education Policy 2020 asserts that nurturing a culture of outstanding research is fundamental to the development of a robust education system in the country. The policy envisions overhauling the higher education system by bringing in frameworks to “actively seed research in universities and colleges”. The ICSSR, in its consistent efforts to develop and re-energize the higher education system in the country, aims to inspire critical thinking, methodological and composition skills among young scholars and students.

In consideration of that the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR) invites entries for the National Argumentative Essay Writing Competition for Young Scholars on “Simultaneous Elections in India: One Nation, One Election” in three categories:

1. Undergraduate Student

2. Postgraduate Student

3. PhD Scholar

The competition serves as a capacity-building measure for the development of the process of doing research among young scholars and future researchers. It institutionalizes research skills and strengthens their aptitude in undertaking high- quality research. It also seeks to promote social science research and its utilization in the country.

Important Dates

Opening date:  24 September 2024

Closing date:  8 October 2024

Evaluation by the 3rd/4th Week of October 2024 Result by the 4th Week of October 2024

Entries must be submitted via the online entry form only.

No entries will be considered if submitted after this date.

Prizes for Each Category

First prize - Rs 15, 000

Second prize - Rs 10, 000

Third prize - Rs 7, 500

The top 50 entries from each of the categories will be compiled in a book format and published by the ICSSR.

Eligibility and Entry Rules

Please read the eligibility and entry rules before making the submission.

1. The participant must be a full-time bona fide student at the affiliating university/ institution on the day of submission. 2. The affiliating institution in which the participant is enrolled must be an Institute of National Importance as defined by the Ministry of Education (MoE) or a UGC Recognized Indian University/Deemed University/Institution/College under (2) F / 12(B). 3. Entries for argumentative essays will be accepted in Hindi or English  with a 1,500- word limit. 4. Submissions will undergo three stages of blind evaluation. 5. Participants must not mention their names on the write-up or in the file. Any revelation of participants’ identity will warrant disqualification. 6. Entries must be submitted in PDF formats. Please use MLA 9 formatting, standard margins, 12-point font, and double spacing. 7. The entry must be an original work of the author and should not have been published in part or full anywhere. In case, any use of AI, ChatGPT, or plagiarised material is found, the entry will be summarily disqualified. 8. Only one entry per participant may be submitted for the National Essay Writing Competition. Co-authored entries will not be allowed. 9. The deadline for submission is 8 October 2024. 10. No queries regarding the prizes will be entertained by the ICSSR secretariat until the final declaration of results, which will be placed on the ICSSR website. 11. The final authority for the interpretation of the guidelines or any such issue is vested with the ICSSR.

Submission of Entry

Online form is available at https://aap.icssr.org/   [Form given under Grant category]